Antiviral agents are a class of medications or compounds that are used to prevent, treat, or manage viral infections. These agents work by targeting and disrupting the replication process of viruses, thereby inhibiting their ability to infect host cells and spread throughout the body. Antiviral agents can be used to treat a wide range of viral infections, including influenza, hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, and herpes viruses. They can be administered in various forms, such as oral medications, injections, or topical creams. Research in this area focuses on developing new and more effective antiviral agents, understanding the mechanisms of viral infection and replication, and identifying potential targets for intervention.