Viruses are disease-causing parasites that need a host in order to reproduce and carry out metabolic processes. Human beings can be hosts for viruses when a virus finds a portal of entry into a person's body and starts to divide inside the person's cells. Antiviral drugs can be used to treat but not cure diseases caused by viruses.

Chicken Pox

Chickenpox is a viral disease that typically affects children. Some of its symptoms are a red, itchy rash and raised fluid-filled blisters that can break open and become crusted. The length and severity of this disease can be shortened by administering an antiviral such as zovirax or famvir.

HIV/AIDS Treatment

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. The HIV virus attacks the immune system leaving the person susceptible to infections caused by organisms such as viruses. A combination of antiviral drugs can be used to treat HIV/AIDS, such as amprenavir, emtricitabine and abacavir.

Hepatitis Treatment

Hepatitis is a disease where viruses divide in and destroy the liver cells. Antiviral therapy including drugs such as lamivudine can be used in the treatment of hepatitis.

Genital Herpes Treatment

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that causes itching, pain and sores in the genital area of both men and women. It is caused by a type of herpes simplex virus and is treated with antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and valacyclovir.

Respiratory Virus Infections

Respiratory virus infections such as influenza and the respiratory synctial virus occur in a person's respiratory system to cause symptoms such as congested nose and difficulty breathing. This type of infection can be treated with antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir.

Source:

"Pharmacology"; Richard A Harvey, Richard Finkel, Pamela C. Champe, Michelle Alexia Clark, Luigi X. Cubeddu.; 2008.

"Basic Concepts in Pharmacology: A Student's Survival Guide"; Janet L. Stringer.; 2005.