Antiviral

抗ウイルス薬 (Kō-uirusu-yaku)

A medication that inhibits the replication of viruses within the body. In Japan, common antivirals include oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and baloxavir (Xofluza) for influenza, acyclovir for herpes infections, and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) for COVID-19. Most antivirals require a physician's prescription and are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Japan is one of the largest consumers of oseltamivir globally; rapid influenza antigen testing at clinics allows for same-day prescription of antivirals.

In 9 languages

LanguageTerm
English Antiviral
Japanese (日本語) 抗ウイルス薬
Chinese (中文) 抗病毒药
Korean (한국어) 항바이러스제
Portuguese Antiviral
Spanish Antiviral
Filipino Antiviral
Thai ยาต้านไวรัส
Vietnamese Thuốc kháng virus
Romanization Kō-uirusu-yaku
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Last reviewed: September 2026