Alovudine (DB06198): A Comprehensive Report on a Thymidine Analog Antiviral Agent

1. Introduction to Alovudine

Alovudine is a synthetic pyrimidine 2',3'-dideoxyribonucleoside, specifically an analog of the natural nucleoside thymidine.[1] Its primary investigation centered on its potential as an antiviral agent for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.[3] Despite demonstrating in vitro potency, particularly against certain drug-resistant HIV strains, the clinical development of Alovudine for HIV was ultimately discontinued. The cessation of its development was primarily attributed to a challenging toxicity profile observed during clinical trials and, in the later stages, a failure to meet predefined efficacy targets at doses considered tolerable.[4]

Throughout its research and development phases, Alovudine has been identified by several synonyms. These include 3'-deoxy-3'-fluorothymidine (commonly abbreviated as FLT), MIV-310 (a designation used notably during its development by Medivir), and CL 184,824.[1] A comprehensive understanding of these alternative names is essential for navigating the historical literature and tracking the compound's progression through different research and corporate entities.