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Ribavirin is a synthetic, broad-spectrum antiviral drug first used in 1974. It is a nucleoside analog, meaning it mimics natural nucleosides and can interfere with viral replication.12

Ribavirin is particularly noted for its use in treating respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, where it can be administered orally, by injection, or through inhalation. While effective against RSV, it's important to note that viruses are obligate parasites, requiring a host cell to replicate, which presents challenges in developing antiviral therapies that target the virus without harming host cells.32

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