medicines
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
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| 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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Read the guide →Last reviewed: September 2026