Antiviral agents are a class of drugs that are used to treat viral infections. They work by inhibiting the growth and replication of viruses, which can help to reduce symptoms and prevent the spread of the infection. Antivirals are used to treat a variety of viral infections that affect the skin and mucous membranes, including herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

In dermatology, antivirals are commonly used to treat conditions such as genital herpes, shingles, and warts caused by HPV. Topical antivirals are usually used for localized skin infections, while systemic antivirals may be used for more severe or widespread infections. These drugs can be administered orally, topically, or intravenously depending on the severity of the infection.

In this learning module, you will find a comprehensive review of the different antiviral agents used in dermatology, including their mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions.

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1. Bolognia, Jean, et al. Dermatology. Elsevier, 2018.

2. Wolverton, Stephen E. Comprehensive Dermatologic Drug Therapy. 4th edElsevier, 2020.