Antiviral drug resistance is when a virus changes genetically, making it immune to drugs that once worked. This happens due to mutations during viral replication, which can alter a drug's target, like a protein or enzyme. The result is that the drug can't bind to the virus effectively, rendering the medication useless. High mutation rates in viruses like HIV and influenza, along with inconsistent or incomplete drug use, accelerate the development of resistance. This is a significant issue for long-term treatments, as the constant presence of a drug creates a strong evolutionary pressure for resistant viral strains to emerge and thrive, making infections harder to manage.
Market Analysis: The market for antiviral drugs is strongly tied to the issue of drug resistance. The global market, estimated at approximately $67.04 billion in 2025, is projected to reach around $96.30 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 3.6%. This growth is fueled by the ongoing need for new and more effective treatments for viral diseases and the development of combination therapies designed to prevent resistance. The future of this market hinges on continued innovation in drug development and the global effort to combat viral threats. North America currently dominates the market, but the Asia-Pacific region is poised for the fastest growth.
