What effect do antiviral agents have on the immune system?

Antiviral agents are designed primarily to target viral pathogens and help control viral infections, but they can also influence the immune system. Modulating immune responses means that these agents can enhance or adjust the body’s immune function in a way that helps to fight off the infection more effectively. For instance, some antiviral medications may promote the activity of immune cells such as interferons, which play a crucial role in the body’s defense against viruses.

In contrast, the first option stating that antiviral agents inhibit the immune response completely is not accurate because most antivirals support or enhance immune mechanisms rather than suppress them. The third option, which suggests that antivirals enhance viral replication, is fundamentally incorrect, as the primary goal of these agents is to inhibit viral replication to control and eliminate the infection. Lastly, stating that antivirals have no effect on the immune system overlooks the significant role these agents play in modulating the immune response and enhancing the body’s ability to respond to viral infections effectively. Thus, the correct understanding is that antiviral agents can modulate immune responses, offering a multifaceted approach to treating viral infections.