Abstract
Antiviral chemotherapy, an indispensable tool in combating viral infections, faces numerous challenges that often undermine its overall effectiveness and application. This review critically examines the multifaceted issues associated with antiviral chemotherapy, drawing on comprehensive data from NCBI, PubMed, and other reputable academic sources. The primary purpose of this research is to analyze and evaluate key problems such as the development of drug resistance, narrow therapeutic windows, limited spectrum of activity, toxicity, high costs, viral latency, and the complexities inherent in combination therapy. These challenges necessitate a delicate and strategic balance in the development, regulation, and application of antiviral drugs. The research methodology included an exhaustive review of peer-reviewed articles and clinical studies sourced from PubMed and NCBI databases, focusing on ten critical challenges in antiviral chemotherapy. The findings underscore the persistent issue of drug resistance, particularly in RNA viruses like HIV and hepatitis C, which demand ongoing innovation in antiviral drug design and implementation. Additionally, the analysis reveals the significant risks posed by the narrow therapeutic index of many antiviral drugs, which often increases the likelihood of adverse effects, thus limiting their safe and effective use. The study also highlights the formidable challenges posed by viral latency and the limited efficacy of current therapies against emerging and re-emerging viral threats. This research significantly contributes to the understanding of the inherent limitations in existing antiviral therapies and underscores the pressing need for more effective, accessible, and safe treatments. The practical significance lies in offering insights that could guide future research, clinical practice, and policy decisions, ultimately improving global health outcomes in the fight against viral diseases.