Choosing HIV Medicines

Choosing HIV Medicines

There are several HIV medicines in different drug classes. The best treatment depends on individual health needs, potential side effects, and drug interactions. Health care providers help select the most effective regimen. HIV treatments begin with a regimen, which comprises of daily pills or monthly injections .

There are seven  HIV drug classes, each targeting different stages of the HIV virus life cycle:  

1.Nucleoside/Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs) – “Faulty building blocks” that stop HIV from making copies of its genetic material.  

·  Example: Tenofovir, Zidovudine (AZT).  

2. Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs) – Attach to the reverse transcriptase enzyme, stopping it from working.  

·  Example: Efavirenz, Nevirapine.  

3. Protease Inhibitors (PIs) – Block the protease enzyme, preventing HIV from maturing into infectious particles.  

·  Example: Ritonavir, Lopinavir.  

4.Integrase Inhibitors (INSTIs) – Stop HIV from inserting its genetic material into human DNA.  

  • Example: Dolutegravir, Raltegravir.  

5.  Entry Inhibitors (CCR5 Antagonists) – Prevent HIV from entering human cells by blocking the CCR5 receptor.  

  • Example: Maraviroc.  

6. Fusion Inhibitors – Stop HIV from fusing with human cells, preventing infection.  

  • Example: Enfuvirtide.  

7. Post-Attachment Inhibitors – Block HIV even after it has attached to human cells, stopping it from entering.  

  • Example: Ibalizumab.  

Treatment regimens typically include HIV medicines from two or more drug classes. The choice of HIV medicines to include in a treatment regimen depends on a person’s individual needs, including previous treatment history.  

Taking HIV Medicines  

  • Adherence is crucial – Taking ART exactly as prescribed prevents drug resistance and keeps HIV under control.  
  • Side effects are usually manageable – Some may experience mild or serious side effects. Always consult a doctor before stopping or adjusting medication.  
  • Drug interactions – HIV medicines can interact with other medications, so health care providers carefully review a person’s full medical history before prescribing ART.  

With proper treatment, people with HIV can lead long, healthy lives while preventing the spread of HIV to others.