Antivirals
Herpes, influenza, HIV and hepatitis C medicines all share this range under one antiviral umbrella, each targeting a different virus, from Valtrex and Zovirax to Tamiflu.
Tenvir-em
Tenofovir Disoproxil, Emtricitabine
300mg + 200mg
Tenofovir and emtricitabine tablets for HIV and pre-exposure prophylaxis. Combining two antivirals lowers the risk of resistance.
Key points
- Antivirals are grouped by the virus they target, not treated as one interchangeable set of medicines.
- Influenza antivirals are a distinct group from antibiotics and from antivirals used for other infections.
- HIV treatment usually combines medicines from more than one antiretroviral class.
- Seven listed medicines here span five virus groups: herpes zoster and related herpesviruses, influenza, HIV, COVID-19 and hepatitis C.
Herpes and influenza antivirals in this range
Valaciclovir is the ingredient in Valtrex, listed for herpes zoster, herpes simplex virus infections and varicella. Zovirax (aciclovir) and Famvir (famciclovir) are listed for the same three conditions. Tamiflu (oseltamivir) targets a different virus entirely, listed for influenza A and influenza B.
HIV, hepatitis C and COVID-19 antivirals in this range
Tenofovir disoproxil and emtricitabine combine in Tenvir-em, listed for HIV-1 infection and pre-exposure prophylaxis. Velpanat combines sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, listed for chronic hepatitis C. Movfor, containing molnupiravir, is listed for COVID-19.
Further reading
What antivirals does Direct Meds sell?
Direct Meds lists 7 antivirals. Together they contain 9 different active ingredients, including valaciclovir, aciclovir and oseltamivir. Examples include Valtrex and Zovirax; all 7 medicines are listed on this page.
What conditions are antivirals used for?
Between them, the antivirals on Direct Meds are used for herpes zoster, varicella, herpes simplex virus infections, influenza A virus infection and influenza B virus infection.
Do antivirals come as tablets or other forms?
Mostly as tablets, with some capsules. The forms and strengths are listed on each product page.
How do I choose between the antivirals on Direct Meds?
Start with the active ingredient: there are 9 different ones in this range. Products with the same active ingredients contain the same medicine. Compare their strength, form and price per unit. Each product page's details table lists uses, how quickly it works, side effects and interactions. If you take other medicines, are pregnant or have a long-term condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
Will I receive branded or generic antivirals?
Usually a generic. Names such as Valtrex and Zovirax identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength. Others, such as Tenvir-em and Movfor, are listed under their own names; for these you receive a branded generic or generic with the same active ingredients, depending on stock.
What you will receive →How are antivirals priced?
Compare each medicine, strength and pack on its product page. Prices are shown in rand, converted from US dollars, so the final rand total can change with the exchange rate. Larger packs usually cost less per unit.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription to buy antivirals in South Africa?
No. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order antivirals. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Where can I buy antivirals online in South Africa?
Choose a product, strength and pack, then check out. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →