Résumé
The conventional drug design method focuses on the reductionist approach of simplifying complex things. Pharmaceutical development following this approach is thorough and detailed. However, it does not guarantee satisfactory results for all drugs. Systems theory, which explores the nature of things from a holistic perspective based on their integrity and relevance, has played a vital role in the prevention and treatment of major viral diseases. Based on the interpretations of examples of the holistic approach in drug designs at home and abroad, novel coronavirus infection demonstrates the advantages of combining reductionist and systemic theories in the research of antiviral drugs, with a view to providing guidance for the design and development of antiviral drugs as well as scientific solutions for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases.Copyright © 2023 Chinese Pharmaceutical Association. All rights reserved.