Antiviral

Antiviral medicines are used to treat certain viral infections by reducing the virus’s ability to multiply in the body. Unlike antibiotics (which treat bacterial infections), antivirals work only for specific viruses. They can help shorten the duration of symptoms, reduce complications, and lower the risk of severe illness, especially when started early.

In this category, you may find antivirals used for conditions like influenza (flu), herpes infections (cold sores/genital herpes), shingles (herpes zoster), hepatitis, and some other viral illnesses, depending on product availability and medical guidance.

Key Facts

• Used for: Specific viral infections (not all viruses)
• Works best when: Started early (often within the first 24–48 hours for some infections)
• Forms available: Tablets, capsules, syrups, creams, and injections (depends on medicine)

How Antivirals Work

Antivirals help by:

• Blocking virus replication (stopping the virus from multiplying)
• Reducing viral load so the immune system can control the infection better
  They do not usually remove the virus instantly, but they can make the infection milder and shorter.

Common Uses

Flu (influenza)

Helps reduce flu severity and duration in selected cases, especially high-risk patients.

Herpes infections

Used for cold sores, genital herpes, and recurrent herpes outbreaks to reduce symptoms and frequency.

Shingles (herpes zoster)

Helps reduce pain, rash severity, and risk of complications when started early.

Hepatitis (B or C)

Long-term antiviral therapy may be used to control infection and protect the liver (under specialist guidance).

Types of Antivirals You May See

Anti-herpes antivirals

Examples: acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir

Anti-flu antivirals

Examples: oseltamivir (and others depending on region)

Hepatitis antivirals

Different medicines are used for hepatitis B and C, depending on test results and specialist advice.

Safe Use Tips

• Start early if prescribed (timing matters for many antivirals).
• Take the full course and do not stop early.
• Do not self-medicate, because the antiviral choice depends on the virus and your health condition.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, pregnancy, or other ongoing medicines.

Possible Side Effects

• Nausea, stomach upset
• Headache or dizziness
• Fatigue
  Some antivirals may require dose adjustment in patients with kidney problems.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Get medical help quickly if you have:

• Breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe weakness
• High fever not improving, confusion, dehydration
• Severe rash or swelling (possible allergic reaction)
• Shingles near the eye or vision changes
• Yellowing of eyes/skin (liver warning signs)

Explore Antiviral Medicines

Browse this category to find antivirals for specific viral infections. For safe, effective results, choose medicines based on a professional diagnosis and advice.