Yhdistelmäantiretrovirallisia

Yhdistelmäantiretrovirallisia, often referred to as combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) or highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), represents a cornerstone in the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This therapeutic approach involves the simultaneous administration of multiple antiretroviral drugs, typically three or more, from different drug classes. The primary objective of cART is to suppress viral replication to undetectable levels, thereby preserving immune function and preventing the progression of HIV to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

The development of cART marked a significant turning point in HIV treatment. Before its widespread adoption, HIV was a progressive and often fatal disease. The combination of drugs targets various stages of the HIV life cycle, making it more difficult for the virus to develop resistance. Common drug classes used in cART include nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs), and entry inhibitors.

Adherence to cART is crucial for its effectiveness. Consistent daily intake of prescribed medications is necessary to maintain sufficient drug levels in the body and prevent the emergence of drug-resistant HIV strains. While cART has dramatically improved the prognosis and quality of life for individuals living with HIV, it is not a cure. Lifelong treatment is generally required. Potential side effects vary depending on the specific drugs used and can range from mild gastrointestinal issues to more serious metabolic changes or organ toxicity. Ongoing research continues to focus on developing simpler, more potent, and better-tolerated treatment regimens.