Anti-Viral Drugs.
Anti-viral drugs are classified as medications used to treat specific viruses, much like anti-biotics are used to treat certain bacterial infections. There are a number of different anti-viral drugs on the market which are used for a variety of viruses. The chief difference between anti-viral drugs and anti-biotics is that anti-virals are not effective in killing pathogens; instead what they do is inhibit their growth.
Anti-virals are just one class of a group of antimicrobials which also includes anti-fungals, anti-parasitic drugs, as well as anti-biotics. There are specific anti-virals to treat very specific viruses such as the HIV virus, influenza virus, herpes virus, as well as hepatitis B and C viruses. Researchers are working diligently to develop anti-virals which will be used to treat other types of pathogens.
Because viruses replicate in their hosts cells it has been a constant battle for scientists to develop anti-virals which are safe as well as effective. This is mainly because finding a proper target without compromising or interfering with the host’s organism cells is difficult. This is one of the main reasons modern medicine has not been able to develop a cure for viruses, to date.
Dosage and Method of Administering Anti-Virals.
The method of administering anti-viral drugs varies depending on the specific class of anti-viral, as well as the virus being targeted. Anti-virals can be given orally or as injections. The dosage depends on the type of antiviral being given, the levels of active virus in the blood, and is typically determined on a case by case basis.
Drug Interactions.
There are many drugs which can interact negatively with anti-virals. Some of these drugs include cough medicines, psychotropic drugs, cardiovascular drugs, ADHD medications, sulfa drugs, methadone, blood thinners, as well as some of the drugs used to treat Cancer. As with any drug, a physician should be notified of any medications a person may be taking prior to prescribing an anti-viral drug.
Side Effects Associated with Anti-Viral Drugs.
The side effects of anti-viral drugs can vary depending on which one is being administered. Some of the more common side effects are dizziness, joint or muscle pain, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, irritability, anxiety or insomnia. If the medication is being given in the form of an injection, there is a possibility of redness or swelling near the injection site. In addition, other side effects such as diarrhea, cough, runny nose, numbness or a tingling sensation may occur.
