Final answer:
Remdesivir has shown strong in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2 and can reduce recovery time in COVID-19 patients; however, its effectiveness in clinical use may vary. Its mechanism targets viral RNA replication, reducing the likelihood of resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Against SARS-CoV-2, remdesivir has demonstrated A. Strong in vitro activity. This antiviral drug operates by inhibiting the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase which is crucial for viral replication. Since its discovery, remdesivir has been evaluated for its potential to treat various viral infections including Ebola and more recently, COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2. Due to its mechanism of action, which targets a viral enzyme, it is less likely that resistance will occur compared to drugs that target other viral or host processes. Important to note is that while remdesivir has shown effectiveness in vitro, this may not always translate into clinical effectiveness. Nonetheless, clinical trials have indeed shown that remdesivir can reduce the recovery time in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
Antiviral drugs in general face challenges in curative success but can often control symptoms and reduce viral load. Resistance development is a critical issue for antivirals, as seen in viruses with high mutation rates like HIV, but remdesivir's targeted mode of action reduces the likelihood of resistance development, making it a valuable treatment option for SARS-CoV-2.