Many types of viruses, such as the cold and flu, typically cause minor symptoms and usually resolve on their own. However, viruses can sometimes cause more serious effects, in which case a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications.
Antiviral drugs can be prescribed after a person becomes infected, or they can be administered before an infection to prevent symptoms and stop viruses from spreading to others. Here are a few key factors to consider about antivirals and their role in healthcare.
Antivirals typically work in one of three ways. They can:
While it is possible to cure some viruses with medication, chronic viral infection will persist even after treatment has been administered. However, antiviral drugs can reduce active virus to the degree that the infection becomes inactive and ceases causing health effects.
Antiviral resistance occurs when a virus is no longer affected by medication. This can happen after a virus mutates, which can occur without any underlying cause. Antiviral resistance can also result from the sudden stoppage of antiviral treatment. That is why people must take medications according to their doctor’s instructions for the full medication course.
One way to combat antiviral resistance is to prescribe two medications at once, as it is unlikely that a virus will develop resistance to both medications simultaneously. Once resistance has been discovered, doctors can also switch medication or change the dosage.
Like all other medications, antiviral drugs do come with a risk of side effects. Talk with your doctor about possible effects and how to handle them to ensure your treatment is as effective as possible.