Antibiotics and antivirals are medications used to treat bacterial and viral infections, respectively. Antibiotics work by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria, while antivirals work by targeting specific viral proteins and preventing their replication. Common bacterial infections treated with antibiotics include strep throat, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia, while common viral infections treated with antivirals include influenza, HIV, and hepatitis. It is important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is also important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to avoid antibiotic resistance. Antivirals may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications, and it is important to discuss their use with a healthcare professional.
