HIVnucleoside

HIV nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are a class of antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection. They work by inhibiting the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which is essential for HIV to replicate. NRTIs are typically administered in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to prevent the development of drug resistance.

The most commonly used NRTIs include zidovudine (AZT), lamivudine (3TC), abacavir (ABC), emtricitabine (FTC), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Each of these drugs has its own unique properties, including different mechanisms of action, side effects, and drug interactions.

NRTIs are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Some NRTIs, such as abacavir, are associated with a higher risk of lactic acidosis, a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

NRTIs are typically taken orally, but some formulations are available in injectable or topical forms. The choice of NRTI depends on various factors, including the patient's medical history, the presence of drug resistance, and the specific strain of HIV. Regular monitoring of viral load and CD4 cell count is essential to ensure the effectiveness of NRTI therapy and to detect any signs of drug resistance.