Anti-Viral Drugs for healthy people

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In summary, antiviral drugs are used to treat viral infections but do not prevent them. They can also have unpleasant side effects. A safer and more effective method for preventing STD transmission is to use barrier methods like condoms, or to require STD screening for all sexual partners before engaging in any type of sexual contact. The only completely safe way to avoid STDs is to abstain from sexual contact altogether.
  • #1
sean1234
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I am thinking mostly about STDs for this matter. Is is possbile for a non-infected person to regularly take anti-viral drugs to prevent contracting HPV or HSV, even HIV?
 
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  • #2
Antiviral drugs are used to treat viral infections, it does not prevent them.
 
  • #3
Condoms?
 
  • #4
Antivirals can have pretty nasty side effects. I haven't managed to refine my search terms on PubMed adequately to get you some examples yet, however. It would not be something that an otherwise healthy person would want to take, when the alternative methods for reducing risk are much safer. As TVP45 suggests, condoms, and other barrier methods, are highly effective for preventing STD transmission. However, a much more effective method is simply to require STD screening in all your partners before engaging in any form of sexual contact (and if you have had prior partners for whom you do not know their sexual history, then you too should be screened). Only engage in sexual contact if they test clean. (And of course the only 100% safe method of avoiding STDs is to avoid sexual contact entirely, but not many people choose to follow that advice.)
 

1. What are anti-viral drugs for healthy people?

Anti-viral drugs for healthy people are medications that are used to prevent or treat viral infections in individuals who are generally healthy and have a functioning immune system.

2. How do anti-viral drugs work?

Anti-viral drugs work by inhibiting the replication of viruses or by boosting the body's immune response to the infection. They target specific parts of the virus's life cycle to prevent it from reproducing and spreading within the body.

3. Can anyone take anti-viral drugs for prevention?

No, anti-viral drugs for prevention are typically only recommended for individuals who have a high risk of exposure to a specific virus, such as healthcare workers or individuals traveling to areas with high rates of viral infections. They are not recommended for general use as a preventative measure.

4. Are there any side effects of taking anti-viral drugs for prevention?

Like any medication, anti-viral drugs can have potential side effects, such as nausea, headaches, or fatigue. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

5. Can anti-viral drugs be used to treat all types of viral infections?

No, anti-viral drugs are only effective against specific types of viruses. They are not effective against bacterial infections, and they may not work against certain strains of viruses. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for the correct treatment of a viral infection.

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