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There are four different classes or "families" of anti-HIV drugs:
Each drug class fights HIV in a different way. The primary difference between each class is the stage of HIV replication that the drugs target.
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs), also called "nukes"
NRTIs work by blocking the action of HIV reverse transcriptase, a key enzyme necessary for viral replication. Chemically modified nucleosides and nucleotides (analogs) are incorporated into the viral DNA in place of natural building blocks, tricking the virus into using them during viral replication. These modified building blocks are different enough so that they do not support the replication of HIV, thus helping to stop the reproduction of the virus.
Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs), also called "non-nukes"
NNRTIs also target reverse transcriptase, but in a different way than NRTIs do. Essentially, NNRTIs help stop HIV replication by attaching to the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing it from translating viral RNA into DNA.
Protease Inhibitors (PIs)
PIs target the HIV protease enzyme, which breaks HIV protein chains into smaller pieces to complete viral replication. This is one of the final steps in the production of HIV. By helping to stop protease from breaking up HIV protein chains, PIs can prevent new copies of HIV from being made.
Fusion Inhibitors (FIs)
FIs work by targeting and blocking an important step in the process of HIV entry into CD4 cells known as fusion. By blocking fusion, FIs may prevent HIV from infecting CD4 cells.
Patients should read the Patient Information, including "What is the most important information I should know about Truvada?". It is important that you discuss your treatment options and any questions that you may have with your healthcare provider.
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