Infections
Antivirals
Used for
Flu, herpes (cold sores, shingles), HIV and others
How it works
Stop a virus from copying itself. Each works against specific viruses.
Watch for
Oseltamivir works best when started within 48 hours of flu symptoms.
- Name clue
- -vir
- Examples
- oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
- acyclovir (Zovirax)
- valacyclovir (Valtrex)
More in infections
- PenicillinsBacterial infections like strep throat and ear infections
- CephalosporinsSkin, ear, throat and urinary infections
- MacrolidesRespiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia
- TetracyclinesAcne, Lyme disease, respiratory infections
- FluoroquinolonesUrinary, respiratory and other infections
- LincosamidesSkin, dental and other infections
- Nitroimidazoles (metronidazole)Certain bacterial and parasite infections
- Urinary antibioticsUrinary tract infections
- Tuberculosis (TB) drugsTuberculosis
- AntifungalsYeast and other fungal infections
A study and reference aid. Follow the product labeling and your pharmacist for anything about a patient's medicine.
Studying for the PTCE?
Drug classes are a big part of the Medications domain. Gutta's lessons and practice questions cover them, with an explanation for every answer.
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