What Are the Functions of Antiviral Drugs?

Antiviral drugs are the result of research into fighting viral infection.

Viruses are a parasitic nucleus of DNA surrounded by protein and other organic compounds. A majority of biologists consider viruses to be nonliving creatures, despite the organic composition of the parasites. Viruses are unable to reproduce without using essential components located in the host. The inability of viruses to reproduce without a host is what sets them apart from living organisms.

History

Some argue that anitvirals have led to stronger and more mutated strains of viruses.

D. J. Bauer, a scientist with publications spanning 30 years, places the use of the first antiviral drugs in the early 1960s. According to Bauer, the two antivirals were idoxuridine for the treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV), and methisazone for complications caused by the smallpox vaccine. In more recent years, antivirals have been introduced for influenza-related illnesses. Antivirals such as Tamiflu, first developed in the early 1990s, have had success in combating ever stronger viruses, such as swine flu.

Function

Antivirals work by releasing synthesized protein similar to those found in viruses. Antivirals work by blocking cell receptors (prevention), blocking viral ability to reproduce or spread (disabling), and by boosting the immune system (combating).

Viruses

Some common viruses include swine flu, avian flu, herpes simplex virus (HSV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), smallpox, multiple sclerosis and the human papilloma virus (suspected of being the leading cause of cervical cancer in adult women).

Antiviral Drugs

Antivirals are being made more readily available to combat swine flu.

Some antiviral drugs include amantadine, rimantadine, zidovudine (AZT), acyclovir, zanamivir (Relenza) and oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

Considerations

Misuse or overuse of antivirals can lead to the development of drug-resistant viruses, especially of flu viruses such as swine flu, according to Hugh Pennington, a virologist at the University of Aberdeen, as quoted in an April 29, 2009 article on Time.com.

Solution

Limiting antiviral use is essential to the effectivness of the drugs.

Consult a physician for information on proper usage of antiviral medication.

References

• Time: How Antivirals Can Save Lives
• Star Tribune: Antivirals Work, but Have Limtis
• Table of Antivirals and Associated Illnesses

Resources

• All About Viruses