Antiherpes Agents: Overview: Antiviral drugs targeting herpes viruses are designed to inhibit the replication of these viruses, which include herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). These drugs are essential in managing and treating infections caused by herpes viruses. Types of Antiherpes Agents: Nucleoside Analogues: Acyclovir: Acyclovir is a prototypical antiviral drug effective against HSV and VZV. It is a nucleoside analogue that inhibits viral DNA synthesis by competing with the natural nucleoside and becoming incorporated into the growing viral DNA chain, leading to chain termination. Valacyclovir: Valacyclovir is a prodrug of acyclovir, meaning it is converted into acyclovir in the body. It is often used for the treatment of genital herpes, shingles, and cold sores. Famciclovir: Another prodrug, famciclovir is converted to penciclovir, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase. It is used for the treatment of herpes zoster and recurrent genital herpes. Nucleotide Analogues: Cidofovir: Cidofovir is a nucleotide analogue that inhibits viral DNA polymerase. It is used in severe cases of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and acyclovir-resistant HSV infections. Protein Kinase Inhibitors: Foscarnet: Foscarnet is a non-nucleoside analogue that inhibits viral DNA polymerase and reverse transcriptase. It is used in the treatment of acyclovir-resistant HSV and CMV infections. Mechanism of Action: Most antiherpes agents interfere with viral DNA synthesis. Nucleoside analogues are incorporated into the growing DNA chain, leading to premature termination, while nucleotide analogues act as chain terminators directly. Protein kinase inhibitors disrupt the phosphorylation process crucial for viral DNA synthesis. Side Effects: Common side effects of antiherpes agents include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. More severe side effects are rare but may include kidney dysfunction, especially with prolonged use. Drug Resistance: The emergence of drug-resistant strains, particularly in immunocompromised patients, is a concern. Combination therapy and close monitoring are strategies employed to mitigate resistance. Anti-influenza Agents: Overview: Anti-influenza agents are crucial for managing influenza, a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. These drugs aim to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms and prevent complications. Types of Anti-influenza Agents: Neuraminidase Inhibitors: Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): Oseltamivir inhibits the neuraminidase enzyme, preventing the release of newly formed viral particles from infected cells. It is effective against both influenza A and B viruses. Zanamivir (Relenza): Zanamivir is another neuraminidase inhibitor delivered through inhalation. It also prevents the release of new virions from infected cells. Adamantanes: Amantadine: Amantadine inhibits the M2 ion channel, inhibiting the release of viral genetic material into the host cell.