How Do HIV CRAs Work?

HIV chemokine receptor antagonists (CRAs) are a class of antiretroviral drugs that bind to the different coreceptors of host immune cells to prevent the entry of HIV into these cells.

The CD4+T cells of the immune system of humans are the target areas for HIV. Once the glycoprotein subunit present on the surface of HIV binds to the CD4+T cells, it then binds to coreceptors like CCR5 or CXCR4. Finally, the viral cells fuse with the human cells to allow their entry into the human cells.

CRAs block the interaction of glycoprotein with CCR5 receptors, thereby preventing the viral cells from entering the human cells.

HIV CRAs, when used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs, are beneficial in treating M-tropic strains of HIV.

HIV CRAs, when taken orally, can cause mild side effects such as:

• Cough
• Fever
• Rash
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Itching
• Herpes infection
• Upper respiratory infections
• Constipation
• Appetite disorder
• Muscle pain
• Indigestion
• Some of the severe side effects may include:
• Liver disorders
• Pneumonia
• Septic shock
• Myositis (inflammation of the muscles)
• Osteonecrosis (death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply)
• Rhabdomyolysis (a breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein into the blood)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of HIV CRAs include:

• Maraviroc
• Selzentry