Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee researchers have identified a new potential treatment for Chinkungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease.

The researchers indicate that Efavirenz, a widely used HIV drug, has shown potential in reducing chikungunya virus replication in both laboratory tests and in mice models.

The outcome is a part of the study conducted by the IIT Roorkee supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). This explored Efavirenz’s effects on the Sindbis virus, which is genetically related to the Chikungunya virus.

“Our findings suggest that Efavirenz can interfere with the virus early in its replication process. Since this drug is already widely used for HIV treatment, further clinical trials can explore its potential for Chikungunya treatment, reducing the time and cost required for developing new antiviral drugs,” said Dr. Sanket Nehul, first author of the study.

Prof. Shailly Tomar, the corresponding author of the study, emphasised the importance of these findings, especially the absence of an approved antiviral treatment for chikungunya.

Further prof Tomar added, “At present, people infected with Chikungunya rely on symptom management as there is no specific antiviral treatment. Our study provides initial scientific evidence that Efavirenz might be a potential antiviral drug for chikungunya treatment. However, clinical trials will be required to assess its effectiveness in chikungunya patients.”

The research team at IIT Roorkee, led by Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, the Director of the Institute, said that the institution is committed to research that can address public health challenges. “This study is a critical step in finding possible solutions for mosquito-borne viral infections that affect millions of people globally,” he added.

The research has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. However, IIT Roorkee mainted that the findings do not confirm Efavirenz as a treatment for chikungunya.

Additional studies and clinical trials will be required and further research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy in patients suffering from this debilitating disease.