Word parts
What it means
Drugs that act against viruses. Each works only on certain viruses: acyclovir and valacyclovir for herpes and shingles, oseltamivir for influenza, antiretroviral drugs for HIVaych-eye-VEE (said as letters)Human immunodeficiency virus: a virus that infects and destroys immune cells called CD4 T cells.Full entry , and drugs for hepatitis B and C. They do not kill viruses the way antibiotics kill bacteria; they slow their spread so the immune system can catch up. antibiotican-tee-by-OT-ikA drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.anti- againstbi/o life-ic relating toFull entry do not work on viruses.
For the nurse
Many work best when started early, such as oseltamivir within 48 hours of flu symptoms. Teach the client to finish the course and, for HIV drugs, to take every dose on time to prevent resistance. Several are cleared by the kidneys; encourage fluids as allowed.
At a glance
| Drug class | antiviral |
|---|---|
| Spanish | antiviral |
| Also written | antivirals |
Related terms
vaccine
A product that trains the immune system to protect the body against a specific disease.
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
influenza
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by influenza viruses; the flu.
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus: a virus that infects and destroys immune cells called CD4 T cells.