The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for inhibition of viral nucleic acid polymerases, such as RNA and DNA polymerases, and methods and compositions that are useful for treating viral infections in subjects. The methods comprise administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof, or a composition comprising a compound of formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The composition or method may optionally comprise one or more additional anti-viral agents.