Enfuvirtide

Enfuvirtide

Chemical structure of Enfuvirtide

Enfuvirtide is an antiretroviral drug used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It is classified as a fusion inhibitor, which means it prevents the HIV virus from entering human cells. Enfuvirtide is marketed under the brand name Fuzeon.

Mechanism of Action

Enfuvirtide works by binding to the gp41 subunit of the HIV envelope glycoprotein. This binding prevents the conformational changes required for the fusion of the viral and cellular membranes, thereby inhibiting the entry of the virus into the host CD4+ T cells.

Administration

Enfuvirtide is administered via subcutaneous injection. It is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral agents in patients who have developed resistance to other treatments. The standard dosage involves twice-daily injections.

Side Effects

Common side effects of enfuvirtide include injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, and swelling. Other side effects may include insomnia, peripheral neuropathy, and eosinophilia.

Clinical Use

Enfuvirtide is primarily used in patients with multidrug-resistant HIV. It is often reserved for those who have not responded adequately to other antiretroviral therapies. Due to its mode of administration and cost, it is not typically used as a first-line treatment.

Development and Approval

Enfuvirtide was developed by Trimeris Inc. in collaboration with Roche. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003, making it the first fusion inhibitor available for clinical use.

Related pages

• HIV/AIDS
• Antiretroviral drug
• Fusion inhibitor
• CD4+ T cell