As mentioned in a previous article, the enzyme reverse transcriptase is essential in the replication of HIV. That lesson described how NRTI's interfere with reverse transcriptase, thus interfering with HIV replication. There is another drug class that also interferes with reverse transcriptase; non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or NNRTI's. While they interfere with HIV replication at the same point in the HIV life cycle, they block reverse transcriptase in a different way. The result is the same however; viral suppression. There are three NNRTI's from which to choose.
We all know the key to successful HIV therapy is adherence. Taking your meds as prescribed each and everyday will help ward off resistance and provide you with effective medication therapy for a longer period of time. Simply put, adherence is the key to staying healthy. See the lesson index for important information about adherence.
