Islatravir

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Islatravir (also known as MK-8591 or EFdA) is an experimental antiretroviral medication in development by Merck & Co. for the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. It is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI).

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

Islatravir is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI). It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, an essential protein for the replication of HIV. Unlike other nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), islatravir causes the DNA chain to pause, rather than immediately terminate, allowing it to bind more tightly to the reverse transcriptase enzyme.

Development and clinical trials[edit | edit source]

Islatravir is currently in phase II/III clinical trials for both the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Early results from these trials have shown promise, with islatravir demonstrating potent antiretroviral activity and a good safety profile.

Potential advantages[edit | edit source]

Islatravir has several potential advantages over existing antiretroviral medications. It has a long half-life, which could allow for less frequent dosing. It also has a high barrier to resistance, meaning it could be effective in patients who have developed resistance to other antiretroviral medications.

See also[edit | edit source]

Islatravir Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD