Combination antiretroviral therapy

Overview of combination antiretroviral therapy

Combination antiretroviral therapy

Classification
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Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), also known as highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), is a treatment regimen for HIV/AIDS that uses a combination of three or more antiretroviral drugs. This approach is designed to suppress the HIV virus and stop the progression of the disease.

History

The introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy in the mid-1990s marked a significant advancement in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Prior to cART, treatment options were limited and often ineffective in controlling the virus. The use of multiple drugs in combination was found to be more effective in reducing viral load and improving patient outcomes.

Mechanism of Action

Combination antiretroviral therapy works by targeting different stages of the HIV life cycle. The drugs used in cART are typically selected from different classes of antiretrovirals, such as:

• Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)
• Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)
• Protease inhibitors (PIs)
• Integrase inhibitors
• Entry inhibitors

By using drugs that act on different mechanisms, cART reduces the likelihood of the virus developing resistance.

Benefits

The primary benefit of combination antiretroviral therapy is the significant reduction in viral load, which helps to:

• Prevent the progression to AIDS
• Reduce the risk of HIV transmission
• Improve immune function
• Increase life expectancy

Challenges

Despite its effectiveness, cART presents several challenges:

• Adherence: Patients must adhere strictly to their medication regimen to prevent drug resistance.
• Side Effects: Antiretroviral drugs can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe.
• Drug Interactions: cART can interact with other medications, necessitating careful management.

Current Research

Ongoing research in the field of HIV treatment includes the development of long-acting antiretroviral drugs, vaccines, and potential cures. Researchers are also exploring ways to minimize side effects and improve adherence.

Also see

• HIV/AIDS
• Antiretroviral drug
• Viral load
• Drug resistance
• Immune system