Antiviral drugs are substances that prevent or reduce the severity of infection with a virus. Antiviral drugs are sometimes called antivirals, antiviral agents, or antiviral medications.
These drugs are used to treat people who have been infected with a virus. They work by stopping the virus from making copies of itself in the person’s body or by reducing the symptoms of the infection. Antiviral drugs aren’t usually used to treat viral infections in plants, animals, or insects.
However, they can’t cure viral infections because they don’t kill viruses outright. But they can prevent diseases caused by viruses from progressing and reduce complications in some cases. They also shorten recovery time when taken early enough during an illness.
What are the benefits of antiviral drugs?
These drugs are used to stop the spread of an infection caused by a virus. Antibiotics, on the other hand, only work with bacterial infections.
Some of the most common antiviral drugs include:
- Fluoxetine: Used for depression and anxiety
- Acyclovir: Used for herpes and chickenpox
- Amantadine: Used for influenza treatment
When should antiviral drugs be taken for treatment?
Antiviral drugs are used to treat infections caused by viruses. Treatment usually means that the virus will be suppressed or eliminated. The drugs are used when a person shows symptoms of a viral infection before they develop into a more severe condition. These drugs should not be taken for routine prophylaxis against viral infection.
Usually, antiviral treatments are administered in pills or capsules by biopharma companies. However, in some cases, intravenous administration may be necessary because the person has been unable to keep down oral medication.
How long should antiviral drugs be taken?
The length of time for which antiviral drugs should be taken has been controversial. The duration is usually between 5 and 10 days, but some authorities recommend 21 days in severe cases.
Moreover, these drugs are prescribed for various patients depending on their condition, but their usage has no set duration. The duration of antiviral drug treatment depends on the type of virus to be eliminated.
What are the possible side effects of antiviral drugs?
Antiviral drugs treat HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, herpes, and other viruses. Side effects range from minor ones like headaches to the potentially life-threatening Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Antiviral drugs’ more serious side effects can be prevented with some lifestyle changes and awareness on taking medicines.
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