Enfuvirtide CAS:159519-65-0

Enfuvirtide is indicated for use in HIV-1-infected individuals who have experienced treatment failure with other antiretroviral medications or have developed resistance to multiple antiretroviral drug classes. As a fusion inhibitor, enfuvirtide acts by targeting the gp41 subunit of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein, disrupting the fusion process that allows the virus to enter host CD4+ T cells. The medication is administered subcutaneously, typically twice daily, at sites on the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Enfuvirtide is available as a powder that must be reconstituted with sterile water for injection and then administered using a specially designed pre-filled syringe. The use of enfuvirtide requires careful patient education regarding proper injection technique, site rotation, and storage of the medication. Training on subcutaneous administration and aseptic practices is essential for patients to effectively self-administer enfuvirtide at home. Due to the subcutaneous route of administration, common side effects may include injection site reactions, such as pain, erythema, nodules, or induration. Patients should be instructed on proper injection site care and encouraged to report any persistent or severe injection site reactions to their healthcare provider. As with any antiretroviral therapy, adherence to the prescribed dosing regimen is critical to achieve optimal virologic suppression and prevent the development of further drug resistance. Patients receiving enfuvirtide should be closely monitored for both clinical response and potential adverse effects, with regular assessments of HIV viral load and CD4+ T cell counts to gauge treatment efficacy. In summary, enfuvirtide plays a valuable role in the management of HIV-1 infection, particularly in cases of advanced disease or multidrug-resistant HIV. By targeting a specific step in the viral replication cycle, enfuvirtide offers a unique mechanism of action and contributes to the comprehensive approach of combination antiretroviral therapy in controlling HIV replication and preserving immune function. Close collaboration between healthcare providers and patients is crucial for successful integration of enfuvirtide into the overall treatment strategy for HIV-1 infection.