Chronic hepatitis B virus infection is a key factor in the progression of liver disease and can lead to liver insufficiency, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Antiviral therapy aims to inhibit or eliminate HBV replication and reduce hepatitis activity, thereby reducing or slowing the progression of liver disease. Nucleoside (acid) analogs can rapidly inhibit HBV replication, normalize serum transaminases, and restore liver function, thereby prolonging the survival cycle of patients with hepatic decompensation. Long-term nucleoside (acid) analog therapy can improve liver histology, reverse hepatic fibrosis, and reduce disease progression. Interferon (IFN)-alpha therapy provides long-term benefits, including sustained and cumulative virologic response, seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg), and reduction in cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. The long-term outcomes of polyethylene glycolated interferon (PEG-IFN) and newer Nucs drugs may be better because of their improved efficacy and lower risk of developing resistance. But the efficacy of these drugs is far from satisfactory. In addition, further studies are still needed to investigate the effect of HBV treatment after liver cancer resection or liver transplantation on the incidence and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma.