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HIV and AIDS: Antiretroviral Drugs, Treatments and Medications »
Entry Inhibitors
Entry inhibitors block HIV entry into CD4+ cells.
Fusion inhibitors
The only drug in this class is T-20, which is administered as a twice daily subcutaneous injection. The most common side effect is redness and pain at the site of injection. Rarely, infection can occur at the injection site. There also are reports of generalized allergic reactions.
CCR5 antagonist
Although there were some early concerns of liver inflammation for drugs in this class, MVC appeared to be well tolerated in clinical trials without any specific toxicities attributable to the drug. However, it is a new drug in a new class and the first to actually target the cell. For these reasons, longer follow-up from clinical trials and those followed in the clinic will be very important for assessing the overall safety of the...
Read the HIV and AIDS: Antiretroviral Drugs, Treatments and Medications article »
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
ENFUVIRTIDE - INJECTION
(en-FUE-vir-tide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fuzeon
USES: This medication is used in combination with other anti-HIV drugs to treat HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection.
It works by blocking the HIV virus' ability to infect healthy immune cells (CD4 cells).
This medication does not cure HIV. Patients treated with this medication may continue to acquire "opportunistic" infections associated with HIV. This product also does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact, blood, or sharing of needles.
HOW TO USE: Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously) usually twice daily into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Do not inject into the buttock or near the elbow, knee or groin. Rotate injection sites with each shot. Do not inject in or near bumps from past injections. Also, do not inject into moles, scars, bruises, or your belly button.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
It is very important to continue using this medication (and other anti-HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip any doses.
If you have a very serious allergic reaction to enfuvirtide, do not use it again (see Side Effects section).
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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