Abacavir, Structure, Metabolism, Mechanism Of Action, Drug Interactions, Therapeutic Uses, Side Effects and Contraindications
Abacavir Abacavir is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. It belongs to the class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Abacavir helps to inhibit the activity of the HIV enzyme reverse transcriptase, which is crucial for the virus to replicate and infect more cells. This medication is often used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to effectively manage HIV infection and reduce the viral load in the body. By controlling viral replication, HAART can slow down the progression of HIV to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and improve the patient's immune function. Some common brand names for abacavir include: 1. Ziagen 2. Trizivir (a combination product containing abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine) 3. Kivexa (also known as Epzicom in the United States - a combination product containing abacavir and lamivudine) 4. Triumeq (a ...