Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system. Different strains of the virus exist as viruses mutate and have genetic variations. Group N HIV-1 is one example of the virus, as there are four HIV-1 groups. While there is still no cure for Group N HIV-1 infections, there are medication treatments available that seemingly are effective.
Within six months of medication therapy, a person can usually feel like their body is in better control of the virus, so it is important to seek and follow medical treatment for this diagnosis. Medication treatment such as antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces the amount of the virus in the body and can help lead to a healthier life and body. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of transmitting HIV and also continue to harm your immune system as the virus attacks your body.
Treatment for Group N HIV-1 infections involves taking medications in the form of pills or injections, or a combination of both. Though these medications will not cure HIV, the medications can help to decrease the viral load to a low enough level in a person’s body that the virus is practically undetectable. A healthcare professional can advise you on appropriate or recommended treatment regimes.
It is recommended that anyone diagnosed with HIV should begin antiretroviral therapy (ART). This is usually a combination of medications from several drug classes. Many of the medications may work in a similar way, but a combination of several medications helps to target and affect the virus.
Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRIs) are one class of anti-HIV drugs that may be prescribed. This specific drug class works to turn off a protein in your body that is needed by HIV to copy itself. Some examples of NNRIs include efavirenz, rilpivirine, and doravirine.
Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are another class of drugs that may be recommended for anti-HIV therapy. This drug class works to block a protein HIV needs to copy itself. Some examples of NRTIs include abacavir, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, emtricitabine, lamivudine and zidovudine.
Protease inhibitors (PIs) may also be effective in anti-HIV therapy. This drug class works to inactivate or block HIV protease, an HIV protein that is needed for it to copy itself. PI medications may include atazanavir, darunavir, and lopinavir/ritonavir.
Integrase inhibitors work to disable the protein integrase, which HIV uses to put its genetic material in the body’s CD4 T cells. CD4 T cells are the white blood cells that HIV specifically targets and destroys. Examples of integrase inhibitor medications may include raltegravir, dolutegravir, and cabotegravir.
Entry or fusion inhibitors may also be an effective treatment as these medications block HIV’s entry into CD4 T cells. Examples of these medications may include enfuvirtide and maraviroc.
While there are numerous medications available to help against HIV, it is important to follow advice from a trusted healthcare professional and strictly follow their recommendations. Antiretroviral therapy is most effective if taken regularly as prescribed. These medications have been shown to help keep your immune system strong, reduce the chances of getting an infection, and reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to other people.
As with all drugs, medications for the treatment of Group N HIV-1 infections may have unwanted side effects. Your doctor will monitor for adverse effects of medications and may adjust medications as necessary. Side effects can include, but are not limited to, the following:
Side effects may vary depending on the specific medication and dosage as well as each individual. It is important to let your doctor know if you experience any type of side effects after taking these medications.
Group N HIV-1 can be a life-threatening condition if not addressed medically. This type of HIV, just like other types, does not have a medication to cure it. However, there are proven treatments available that can increase the chances of living a normal life. This is why it is important to seek professional medical help and to begin medication therapy as soon as possible for your condition.