1. A virus is a tiny organism that can only be seen with a microscope. Viruses can infect animals, plants, and bacteria. The cells in our body are constantly dividing in order to make new cells that can continue our life processes. However, for a virus, it can only divide and make new cells when it is in the body of another living organism as it cannot do these processes by itself. When a virus infects humans, it typically causes the flu. We end up getting very sick, and need to take medicine in order to help get rid of the virus. The medicine used to help remove the virus from our body is known as an antiviral drug. In order to completely understand how drugs target viruses, we need to discuss the life cycle of a virus. The organism that the virus attacks is known as the host. The first step of this cycle involves the virus gaining access into a host organism’s cell; it then convinces the machinery of the cell to replicate the virus and make new copies of it. The host cell that the virus targets is very specific. Specific receptors…show more content… (c) Heart burn Proton Pump Inhibitors (for severe heartburn) The frequency of adverse effects is relatively low, and they are the most effective drugs for the inhibition of acid secretion (Module
(d) Traveler’s diarrhea Loperamide This drug is effective for sudden diarrhea as it inhibits cramps and gut motility; it allows rapid relief of diarrhea (Module 5.1). Additionally, it used to treat short bouts of diarrhea that are not caused by a bacterial infection (traveler’s diarrhea)3.
(e) Fever in a child Acetaminophen It is safe for children as it does not cause Reyes syndrome (unlike Acetylsalicylic acid), and is available in liquid form (Module 5.1). It is anti-inflammatory, an effective analgesic, and an effective
