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Antiviral therapeutics

Antiviral therapeutics are medicines designed to help the body fight viral infections. Unlike antibiotics, which target bacteria, antivirals specifically interfere with how viruses replicate and spread within the body. They work by blocking key stages of the virus's life cycle, such as entering cells, copying their genetic material, or assembling new virus particles. This helps reduce the severity and duration of illnesses like influenza, HIV, or COVID-19. While they don’t cure viruses completely, antivirals can manage symptoms and improve outcomes when used appropriately and early in infection.