Maraviroc
What is Maraviroc?
Maraviroc, sold under the brand names Selzentry (US) and Celsentri (EU), is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection (1). It belongs to the CCR5 receptor antagonist class of drugs and is administered orally (1). Specifically, Maraviroc is indicated, in combination with other antiretroviral medications, for the treatment of only CCR5-tropic HIV-1 infection (1). The drug functions by blocking the HIV virus from infecting healthy immune cells (T-cells) (2).
Dosage and Timing
Maraviroc is generally prescribed to be taken twice daily, either with or without food (2). The exact dosage might vary based on factors like the patient's age, weight, and the condition's severity. Adherence to the doctor's prescription is crucial to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes.
Side Effects and Interactions
Commonly observed side effects of Maraviroc encompass symptoms like cough, fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash (2). However, there might be more severe side effects such as liver complications, allergic responses, and other infections (5). Immediate medical intervention is recommended upon encountering any of these symptoms.
Furthermore, Maraviroc can interact adversely with specific drugs, including but not limited to antibiotics, diuretics, and medications prescribed for osteoporosis and hypertension (2). It's imperative for patients to disclose all medications and supplements they're consuming to their healthcare provider to preclude any harmful drug interactions.
Human Studies
Maraviroc's efficacy in treating CCR5-tropic HIV-1 infections is supported by extensive clinical research (3). Generally, the drug is well-tolerated. However, as with all medications, certain individuals might experience side effects.
In summary, Maraviroc is an orally-administered antiretroviral medication primarily used for treating HIV infections. Its mode of action involves inhibiting the HIV virus from infecting healthy immune cells. The standard prescription involves taking Maraviroc twice daily, under the guidance of a healthcare provider. While the drug has common side effects like cough and headache, it can also cause severe reactions in rare instances. Maraviroc may interact with specific medications, making it essential for patients to inform their healthcare providers about all drugs and supplements they are on. The drug's efficacy is well-documented in clinical studies, highlighting its role in treating CCR5-tropic HIV-1 infections.
Citations:
(1) Wikipedia - Maraviroc
(2) WebMD - Maraviroc Oral
(3) NCBI - Maraviroc Studies
(4) DrugBank - Maraviroc
(5) MedlinePlus - Maraviroc
(6) Mayo Clinic - Maraviroc Side Effects