Antiviral agents are medications designed to combat viral infections. Such infections can attack many parts of the body, including a person’s skin.

A virus is a tiny infectious organism that enters the body and invades living cells. Once inside the cell, the virus releases its deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid (RNA) into the cell. The DNA or RNA contains the genetic code that takes control of the cell and causes it to replicate the virus. These replications then go on to infect other cells and repeat the process.

There are several types of viruses that infect the skin and cause symptoms. In many cases, viral skin conditions can be difficult to treat. Not only is it difficult to target viruses, but the virus itself can become immune to a medication over time.

In recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved numerous antiviral agents designed to kill viral infections. These medications interfere with a virus’ ability to replicate and spread. Research continues on new and more powerful versions of these drugs.