Antiviral drugs - Treatment and Prevention of Viral Infections
Antiviral drug containing lamivudine and zidovudine, used in the treatment of HIV infection.
Antibacterial agent for the treatment of leprosy, dermatitis herpetiformis and pneumonia in patients with HIV.
Lamivudine-based antiviral drug, used in HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B.
Antiviral agent that effectively combats herpes viruses, shingles and cytomegalovirus.
Powerful antifungal drug, used to treat mycoses of the skin, nails and systemic fungal infections.
Ribavirin for complex therapy of chronic hepatitis C, enhances the action of interferons.
An antiviral agent, also used in Parkinson's disease to improve motor function.
Inhibits the reproduction of the herpes virus, accelerates the healing of rashes and reduces the risk of recurrence.
An antiviral agent for the treatment of herpes and shingles.
Your Viral Defense: Prescription Antivirals
Antiviral medications are specialized drugs designed to treat viral infections by inhibiting the replication and spread of viruses within the body. Unlike antibiotics, which target bacteria, antivirals are tailored to combat viruses such as influenza, herpes, HIV, and hepatitis. Since the development of the first antiviral, idoxuridine, in the 1960s, these medications have become critical in managing both acute and chronic viral illnesses.
How Antivirals Work
Viruses rely on host cells to multiply, making them challenging to target without harming human cells. Antivirals interfere with specific stages of the viral life cycle—such as entry into cells, replication of genetic material, or release of new viral particles. While they don’t cure all viral infections, they can reduce symptoms, shorten illness duration, and prevent complications.
Types of Antiviral Medications
Antivirals vary depending on the virus they target. Common examples include:
- Influenza Antivirals (e.g., oseltamivir, zanamivir): Used to treat or prevent flu.
- Herpes Antivirals (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir): Manage cold sores, shingles, and genital herpes.
- HIV Antivirals (e.g., tenofovir, emtricitabine): Part of antiretroviral therapy to control HIV.
- Hepatitis Antivirals (e.g., sofosbuvir, entecavir): Treat chronic hepatitis B and C.
Challenges and Considerations
Antiviral resistance is a growing concern, often due to misuse or overuse, particularly in chronic conditions like HIV. Timing is also key—many antivirals, such as those for influenza, work best when taken early in the infection. Side effects like nausea or fatigue may occur, and some require long-term use under medical supervision.
Responsible Use of Antivirals
- Start treatment as prescribed, ideally at the first sign of symptoms when applicable.
- Complete the full course to maximize effectiveness and minimize resistance.
- Use only under a doctor’s guidance, as antivirals are virus-specific.
- Combine with preventive measures like vaccination or hygiene to reduce viral spread.
Antiviral medications are a powerful weapon against viral threats, offering relief and control when used wisely. They play a vital role in modern medicine, protecting health in an ever-evolving viral landscape.