Nevirapine is an antiretroviral drug used primarily in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) that works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for the replication of HIV. The primary mechanisms of action include:
Inhibition of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase:
Nevirapine attaches to and blocks the activity of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV-1 needs to convert its RNA into DNA. This inhibition prevents the virus from multiplying and spreading to new cells.
Reduction of Viral Load:
By impeding the replication process, Nevirapine helps in reducing the amount of HIV in the bloodstream (viral load), potentially leading to improved immune function and health outcomes for individuals living with HIV.
Combination Therapy:
Nevirapine is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs such as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and protease inhibitors (PIs) to enhance its efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance development.
