Antiretroviral Therapies

Antiretroviral therapies (ART) are a cornerstone in the management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). These therapies consist of a combination of drugs that target different stages of the HIV life cycle, suppressing viral replication and preserving immune function. The classes of antiretroviral drugs include nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), integrase inhibitors (INIs), and entry inhibitors. Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) combines drugs from different classes, known as combination therapy, to enhance efficacy and reduce the risk of developing drug-resistant strains. Antiretroviral therapies have revolutionized the prognosis for individuals with HIV, transforming it from a life-threatening condition to a manageable chronic disease. Effective adherence to treatment allows individuals to achieve viral suppression, maintain a healthy immune system, and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus. Despite the success of antiretroviral therapies, challenges remain, including medication adherence, potential side effects, and the development of drug resistance. Ongoing research focuses on developing new antiretroviral drugs, optimizing treatment regimens, and exploring strategies for HIV cure and prevention.