Rilpivirine is new nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) that has the distinct advantage of being able to be used in patients with exposure to previous NNRTIs (e.g., nevirapine or efavirenz). FDA's approval of Rilpivirine provides an additional treatment option for patients who are starting HIV therapy. The drug works by blocking HIV viral replication. Rilpivirine does not cure HIV infection. Patients must stay on continuous HIV therapy to control HIV infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses. The most commonly reported side effects in patients taking Rilpivirine included depression, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), headache and rash. Rilpivirine is able to alter his shape and position (through processes scientifically termed \"wiggling\" and \"jiggling\") in order to enter and bind to the pocket on reverse transcriptase in HIV that carries first generation NNRTI resistance mutations. The benefits of this flexibility, as well as the new drugs' improved side effect profiles.
Loading....