Tuesday, June 8, 2021

BOOSTED PI REGIMEN: AN EXAMPLE OF ENZYME INHIBITION USED FOR THERAPEUTIC PURPOSE

 


BOOSTED PI REGIMEN: 

AN EXAMPLE OF ENZYME INHIBITION USED FOR THERAPEUTIC PURPOSE

Protease inhibitors (PIs) are a class of anti-HIV drugs

PIs have high first pass metabolism. They are mainly metabolised by CYP3A4

PIs when indicated, have to be given as 6-18 tablets daily for months. Patient acceptability and compliance are low.

Ritonavir is also a PI which is a CYP3A4 inhibitor.

Low dose of ritonavir in patients receiving PI based regimen, reduces first pass metabolism of the PIs.

Therefore, the dose of PIs can be reduced and the number and frequency of tablets can also be reduced. The side effects are also reduced.

This provides some relief to the people living with HIV infection receiving PI regimen. 


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