Raltegravir

Raltegravir

Raltegravir is a new drug in the treatment of HIV infection, which targets other action sites than the existing anti-retroviral drugs.

Raltegravir inhibits the catalytic activity of the integrase enzyme, thereby preventing the insertion of viral DNA into the host cell genome. In this case, HIV does penetrate the T-cell, but will not replicate, because the viral DNA will not be transcribed. Without replication and synthesis of viral particles the propagation of the HIV infection is prevented.

 

The most frequently reported adverse reactions observed for raltegravir involve gastrointestinal problems, asthenia and dizziness. Pruritus, lipodystrophy, hyperhidrosis, and arthralgia are specific adverse effects for raltegravir.

See also the other new drug against HIV, maraviroc.

EPAR of raltegravir.