Which medication is specifically designated for viral infections?

The medication specifically designated for viral infections is antiviral. Antivirals are pharmaceutical agents used to treat viral infections by inhibiting the development and replication of viruses in the body. They work by targeting specific stages of the viral life cycle, which helps to reduce the severity and duration of viral illnesses such as influenza, herpes, and HIV, among others.

In contrast, antipyretics are used to reduce fever, laxatives facilitate bowel movements, and analgesics relieve pain. Although these other medications can play important roles in treating symptoms associated with various health conditions, they are not designed to combat viral infections directly. This distinction is crucial in understanding how different medications work and their specific applications in patient care.