Entry inhibitor

Entry inhibitors are a class of antiretroviral drugs used in the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. They work by blocking the virus from entering the host cell, thus preventing the virus from replicating and spreading throughout the body.

Mechanism of Action

Entry inhibitors work by blocking the virus from entering the host cell. This is achieved by binding to specific proteins on the surface of the virus or the host cell, preventing the virus from attaching to the cell and entering it. This prevents the virus from replicating and spreading throughout the body.

Types of Entry Inhibitors

There are several types of entry inhibitors, each targeting a different stage of the viral entry process. These include:

• Fusion inhibitors: These drugs prevent the virus from fusing with the host cell membrane, thus preventing entry into the cell.

• CCR5 antagonists: These drugs block the CCR5 co-receptor on the surface of the host cell, which is used by most strains of HIV to enter the cell.

• CD4 receptor antagonists: These drugs block the CD4 receptor on the host cell, which is the primary receptor that HIV uses to enter the cell.

Examples of Entry Inhibitors

Some examples of entry inhibitors include:

• Enfuvirtide: This is a fusion inhibitor that is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

• Maraviroc: This is a CCR5 antagonist that is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

• Ibalizumab: This is a CD4 receptor antagonist that is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, entry inhibitors can have side effects. These can vary depending on the specific drug, but may include nausea, diarrhea, rash, and fatigue. It is important for patients to discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

See Also

• Antiretroviral therapy
• HIV/AIDS
• Virus