What is an anthemintic?

An anthelmintic is defined as a medication specifically designed to eliminate parasitic worms, known as endoparasites, from the body. These parasites can include various types of worms such as roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes, which can infest the gastrointestinal tract of animals and humans. The effectiveness of anthelmintics lies in their ability to target the metabolic processes of the parasites, thereby killing or expelling them from the host.

Understanding the role of anthelmintics is important in veterinary medicine, as they are often used to maintain the health of animals, prevent the spread of infestations, and ensure the safety of meat and dairy products for human consumption. Their use is essential in managing worm infections that can lead to serious health issues in pets and livestock.

The other options refer to different types of medications that target entirely different health issues—antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, anesthetics for pain management during procedures, and antiviral medications for treating viral pathogens. Therefore, the specific definition and purpose of anthelmintics as outlined is what makes that choice the correct one.