Delavirdine: NNRTI Medication for HIV Treatment

Delavirdine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) medication used in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme that is needed for the HIV virus to multiply in the body.

Delavirdine FAQ

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What is delavirdine used for?

Delavirdine ( DLV) (brand name Rescriptor) is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) marketed by ViiV Healthcare. It is used as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1. It is presented as the mesylate. The recommended dosage is 400 mg, three times a day.

Does delavirdine cure HIV?

Delavirdine is in a class of medications called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). It works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although delavirdine does not cure HIV, it may decrease your chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer.

How does delavirdine bind to RT?

Delavirdine binds directly to viral reverse transcriptase (RT) and blocks the RNA-dependent and DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activities by disrupting the enzyme's catalytic site. Delavirdine is extensively converted to several inactive metabolites by cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A).

What is the toxicity of delavirdine?

Major toxicity of delavirdine is rash and should be advised to promptly notify their physician should rash occur. The majority of rashes associated with delavirdine occur within 1 to 3 weeks after initiating treatment with delavirdine.