What are anthelmintic agents primarily used to treat?

Anthelmintic agents are specifically designed to treat infections caused by parasitic worms, making them effective against a range of helminthic infections such as those caused by roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes. These medications work by targeting the unique biological processes of the worms, leading to their immobilization and subsequent elimination from the host's body.

In contrast, bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, which target the characteristics of bacteria, while fungal infections require antifungal agents that act on fungal cells. Viral infections are managed with antiviral medications that interfere with the replication and life cycle of viruses. Thus, anthelmintic agents are distinctly classified for use against parasitic worms, confirming that they are primarily utilized for that purpose.