What is the primary function of antiviral medications?

The primary function of antiviral medications is to inhibit viral replication. Unlike antibiotics, which target bacterial infections, antiviral medications are specifically designed to treat viral infections by preventing the virus from multiplying within the host's cells. This is accomplished through various mechanisms, such as blocking the virus’s ability to enter the host cells, interfering with the virus’s ability to replicate its genetic material, or inhibiting viral protein synthesis. By effectively reducing the amount of virus in the body, antiviral medications help manage viral infections, making them crucial in treating conditions such as influenza, HIV, and herpes.

The other options do not apply to the primary use of antiviral medications. Reducing fever pertains to antipyretic medications, while treating fungal infections involves antifungal agents. Facilitating bowel movements is related to laxatives, which serve entirely different purposes.