Viruses are
exceptionally small infectious organisms. They are composed of genetic
component, such as DNA or RNA, which is encased in a protein sheath. Body's
cells are invaded by viruses, which utilize the cells' components to aid in
their multiplication. Infected cells are damaged or destroyed during this
process. Any disease or condition brought on by a virus is referred to as a
viral disease. Some of the
more common viruses are Meningitis (there is also bacterial meningitis),
Pneumonia (there is also bacterial pneumonia), Human Papillomavirus (HPV),
Influenza (the flu), HIV which can lead to AIDS and Herpes, etc.
Flu antiviral
medications are a class of prescription drugs (tablet, solution, powder for
inhalation, or intravenous solution) that fight flu viruses in the body.
Antiviral medications are not available over the counter. They are only
available with a prescription from a medical professional. Drugs that treat
viral infections differ from antibiotics, which treat bacterial illnesses. Antiviral
medications for the flu only combat the virus. Antiviral medications used to
treat the flu are distinct from those used to treat other infectious disorders
like COVID-19. Antiviral medications that are recommended for COVID-19 do
not treat the other common flu.
The need for
antiviral drugs is being driven by the increase in viral infections worldwide.
In addition, it is projected that a rise in R&D initiatives and the
creation of more advanced formulations, such as vaccines and combination
medicines, will encourage market expansion. Furthermore, the development of
broad-spectrum antibiotics and the growth possibilities in the expanding
economies of the Asia Pacific and LAMEA regions are projected to create several
opportunities for market expansion throughout the forecast period. However,
industry expansion is being constrained by the high cost of drug research and
the growing popularity of complementary therapies like naturopathy and
homeopathy.
The
antiviral drugs market is expected to grow as demand for antiviral medications is
rising due to the growing prevalence of viral illnesses including Herpes,
Influenza, HIV, and others. According to UNAIDS, nearly, 37 million people
worldwide were living with HIV in 2020. 1.5 million of these individuals were
likely to have contracted HIV. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has also greatly
boosted the market growth in 2021; however, other antiviral drug applications
have seen a negative impact because of the pandemic. In June 2022, the World
health organization stated that around 1.5 million new cases of the hepatitis C
virus are reported each year, with an estimated 58 million people worldwide
carrying the infection. According to estimates, 3.2 million children and
adolescents have chronic hepatitis C infection. More than 95% of people with
hepatitis C can be cured with antiviral medications, but diagnosis and
treatment are not widely available for the same.