The selection of antiviral drugs is usually based on many factors, including antiviral efficacy, safety, drug resistance and so on. Here are some common antiviral drugs and how they work:
Acyclovir (Acyclovir). Primarily used to treat herpes viral infections such as herpes zoster and herpes simplex. Its mechanism of action is to inhibit the synthesis of viral DNA, thus playing an antiviral role .
Ribavirin (Ribavirin). Can be used to treat respiratory syncytial virus infection. It blocks viral replication by interfering with the metabolic process of RNA.
Oseltamivir). It is mainly used to treat influenza A and B. Its mechanism of action is to inhibit the activity of influenza virus neuraminidase, thereby interrupting the spread of the virus in the human body .
Lamivudine (Lamivudine, LAM). A nucleoside analogue that acts against many viruses, including HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) .
Adefovir dipivoxil (Adefovir, ADV). Primarily used to treat hepatitis B and AIDS1.
Telbivudine (Telbivudine, LdT). A thymine deoxynucleotide analog for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B .
Entecavir (Entecavir, ETV). A cyclovaleryl guanine analog useful for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B patients with active lesions .
Tenofovir diproxil fumarate (TDF). An antiviral drug used to treat HIV and HBV infections.
Tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF). A modified version of tenofovir for the treatment of HIV infection .
When choosing an antiviral drug, physicians usually consider the patient’s specific condition, viral type, safety of the drug, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs. In addition, for some viruses, such as influenza, vaccines or drugs may need to be updated annually based on circulating strains to deal with changing viral strains.
