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Antiviral
What is an "antiviral"?
An antiviral is a type of medication that is used to treat infections caused by viruses. These medications work by targeting specific viruses and stopping their ability to reproduce or spread in the body. Antivirals can be used to treat a variety of viral infections, including influenza, HIV, AIDS, and hepatitis. They are prescribed by healthcare providers to help reduce symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and prevent complications associated with viral infections.
antiviral
01
inhibiting or destroying the growth and replication of viruses
antiviral
n
Example
Antivirals are an essential component of the treatment regimen for HIV/AIDS.
Healthcare providers may recommend antivirals as a preventive measure for individuals at high risk of certain viral infections, such as influenza or cytomegalovirus.
The doctor prescribed an antiviral to treat the patient's influenza infection.
Researchers are constantly developing new antivirals to combat emerging viral threats such as Zika and Ebola.