Antiretroviral Activity of Emtricitabine, a Potent Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor

Abstract

Potent triple combination regimens have greatly reduced the clinical progression, opportunistic infections and mortality associated with HIV infection [1,2]. The success of combination regimens and the need for long-term adherence to treatment have led to the search for more potent, and less toxic antiretroviral agents, more patient-friendly regimens and newer drug classes. Meanwhile, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) continue to be an essential component in almost all HIV regimens [3]. An optimal combination of NRTIs appears to be essential for the inhibition of viral replication and the ultimate success of a regimen. NRTIs vary greatly in potency, sideeffects, resistance profiles and dosing convenience [3]. Because the clinical utility of combination antiretroviral regimens is limited by the prevalence of undesirable side-effects, difficulty in adherence to complex dosing schedules and the emergence of viral resistance, the search for potent, safe and well-tolerated NRTIs with favourable dosing schedules remains critical.