Maraviroc

Definition

Maraviroc is a type of antiretroviral drug used in the treatment of HIV infection. It works by blocking the CCR5 co-receptor, which the HIV virus uses to enter and infect CD4+ T cells, thereby preventing viral entry and replication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Maraviroc is classified as a CCR5 antagonist, as it binds to the CCR5 co-receptor and prevents the HIV virus from entering and infecting the host cell.
2. Maraviroc is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen for HIV infection.
3. The development of drug resistance to maraviroc can occur, particularly in individuals who have been previously exposed to other antiretroviral medications.
4. Resistance to maraviroc is often associated with the emergence of viral strains that can use alternative co-receptors, such as CXCR4, to enter and infect host cells.
5. Monitoring for the development of drug resistance is an essential component of HIV treatment, as it allows healthcare providers to adjust the treatment regimen accordingly.

Review Questions

• Explain how maraviroc works to prevent HIV infection and replication.
  • Maraviroc is a CCR5 antagonist, which means it binds to the CCR5 co-receptor on the surface of certain immune cells, such as CD4+ T cells. The HIV virus uses the CCR5 co-receptor, along with the CD4 receptor, to enter and infect these cells. By blocking the CCR5 co-receptor, maraviroc prevents the HIV virus from gaining entry into the host cell, thereby inhibiting viral replication and the progression of the infection.
• Describe the potential for the development of drug resistance to maraviroc and its implications for HIV treatment.
  • The development of drug resistance to maraviroc is a concern in the treatment of HIV infection. Resistance can occur when the virus evolves to use alternative co-receptors, such as CXCR4, to enter and infect host cells, bypassing the effects of maraviroc. This can lead to a reduction in the effectiveness of the drug over time, necessitating changes in the treatment regimen. Monitoring for the development of drug resistance is crucial, as it allows healthcare providers to adapt the treatment plan and potentially switch to alternative antiretroviral medications to maintain viral suppression and prevent disease progression.
• Analyze the role of maraviroc in the broader context of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the management of HIV infection, considering its mechanism of action, potential for drug resistance, and integration with other antiretroviral drugs.
  • Maraviroc is an important component of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the management of HIV infection. Its unique mechanism of action, which targets the CCR5 co-receptor and prevents viral entry into host cells, complements the actions of other antiretroviral drugs that target different stages of the viral life cycle. However, the potential for the development of drug resistance to maraviroc is a significant concern, as the virus can evolve to use alternative co-receptors to gain entry into cells. This underscores the importance of comprehensive monitoring and the need to integrate maraviroc within a broader, multi-drug treatment regimen. By combining maraviroc with other antiretroviral medications, healthcare providers can maximize the effectiveness of the overall treatment plan, suppress viral replication, and mitigate the risk of drug resistance, ultimately improving the management of HIV infection and disease progression.

Related terms

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART):

A combination of medications used to treat HIV infection by targeting different stages of the viral life cycle, preventing viral replication and disease progression.

CCR5 Co-receptor: A chemokine receptor expressed on the surface of certain immune cells, which acts as a co-receptor for the HIV virus, allowing it to enter and infect the cell.

Drug Resistance:

The ability of a pathogen, such as HIV, to withstand the effects of a medication, reducing the effectiveness of the drug over time.