Antivirals are drugs used to treat viral infections by targeting the virus or preventing its replication in the body. Unlike antibiotics, which are effective against bacteria, antivirals specifically target viruses.
Antiviral drugs work by interfering with different stages of the viral life cycle, such as viral entry into cells, viral replication, assembly and release of new viruses. Some examples of antiviral drugs include acyclovir, which is used to treat herpes simplex virus infections, and oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which is used to treat influenza virus infections.
Antivirals can also be used to prevent viral infections, such as the use of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV infections that can cause cervical cancer. However, it’s important to note that not all viral infections can be prevented or treated with antiviral drugs, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the specific virus and the stage of the infection.
TYPES OF ANTIVIRAL
Nucleoside analogues: These drugs mimic the structure of the nucleotides that make up viral DNA or RNA, preventing their replication. Examples of nucleoside analogues include acyclovir, used to treat herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus infections, and ribavirin, used to treat hepatitis C virus infections.
Protease inhibitors: These drugs block the activity of viral proteases, which are enzymes necessary for viral replication. Examples of protease inhibitors include ritonavir, used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, and telaprevir, used to treat hepatitis C virus infections..
Entry inhibitors: These drugs prevent the virus from entering the host cell. Examples of entry inhibitors include maraviroc, used to treat HIV infections, and enfuvirtide, used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections.
Read More... https://www.worldhealthkit.com/antiviral-drugs/