Docosanol, Acyclovir, and Zidovudine are classified as which type of agents?

Docosanol, Acyclovir, and Zidovudine are classified as anti-viral agents because they specifically target viruses and inhibit their ability to replicate. Docosanol is used primarily for the treatment of herpes simplex labialis, commonly known as cold sores, by preventing the virus from entering healthy cells. Acyclovir serves as a nucleoside analogue that effectively disrupts viral DNA synthesis, making it particularly useful in treating herpes virus infections. Zidovudine, also known as AZT, is an antiretroviral medication used in the management of HIV by inhibiting reverse transcriptase, an essential enzyme for HIV replication. The commonality among these agents lies in their mechanism of action—each one interferes with processes vital to viral proliferation, distinguishing them from antibacterial, antifungal, or antiseptic classifications which target bacteria, fungi, and reduce microbial presence on surfaces or skin, respectively.