Antimicrobial and antiviral agents

Our catalog includes both over-the-counter medications and those available only by prescription. Most antibacterial and antiviral medications are prescription-only. The status of each medication is indicated on its product page. Please note that you must have a doctor’s prescription to purchase prescription medications.

Antibiotics act exclusively on bacteria; they are completely ineffective against viruses (for example, in cases of the common cold or the flu). Self-prescribing antibiotics without identifying the causative agent of the disease contributes to the development of bacterial resistance. This means that when the medication is truly needed to save a life, it may simply not work. Only a doctor should prescribe such medications after making a diagnosis.

This is one of the most common mistakes. Even if you feel much better, some bacteria may still remain in your body. Stopping treatment early allows the most resistant bacteria to survive and “learn” to resist the medication. Always complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel completely healthy.

These are medications with fundamentally different mechanisms of action: antibacterial agents are designed to kill bacteria or inhibit their growth, while antiviral agents target the mechanisms by which viruses replicate. They are not interchangeable. The choice of a specific medication depends on the exact cause of the illness, so diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.

Antimicrobial and antiviral medications can affect the gut microbiota or cause individual reactions. If you experience severe discomfort, a rash, or other concerning symptoms, be sure to inform the doctor who prescribed the treatment. Do not change the treatment regimen on your own.

Using antibiotics “just in case” for viral illnesses is ineffective and harmful. The prophylactic use of such medications is possible only in specific cases determined by a doctor (for example, before certain surgical procedures). In all other situations, prevention should be based on supporting your own immune system, rather than on taking special medications.

Antibacterial and antiviral therapy is a powerful tool whose effectiveness depends on the accuracy of the diagnosis and strict adherence to the treatment regimen. The patient’s responsibility lies in following the prescribed dosages, taking the medication regularly, and completing the full course of treatment as directed by the doctor.