How HIV Infections Medications Work

HIV medications, also known as antiretroviral therapy (ART), work by targeting different stages of the virus's life cycle. The goal is to suppress viral replication and restore immune function.

Targeting HIV Replication

• Gold Standard: Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) - A combination of medications that target multiple steps in the HIV replication process, including reverse transcription, integration, and viral maturation.

• Alternatives:

  • Protease Inhibitors: Block the protease enzyme, which is essential for viral maturation.

  • Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs): Bind to and inhibit the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing viral replication.

  • Entry Inhibitors: Prevent the virus from entering host cells by targeting the HIV envelope protein or the host cell's entry receptors.

Restoring Immune Function

By suppressing viral replication, ART allows the immune system to recover and regain its function. This is critical for preventing opportunistic infections and restoring quality of life for individuals living with HIV.