What is pifeltlo, and how does it compare to other HIV treatments?
Pifeltro, also known as dofetilide, is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection. It belongs to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) [1]. Developed by AbbVie, pifeltro works by mimicking the structure of natural nucleosides, which are building blocks of DNA. When HIV infects a cell, it must replicate its genetic material using the host cell's machinery. Pifeltro inhibits this process by competing with the natural nucleosides, thereby preventing the virus from replicating.
How does pifeltro work in the body?
When taken orally, pifeltro is absorbed into the bloodstream and then distributed to the cells throughout the body, where HIV is primarily found. Inside the infected cells, pifeltro is phosphorylated, which allows it to bind to the reverse transcriptase enzyme. This enzyme is essential for HIV replication, as it converts the viral RNA into DNA. By blocking this enzyme, pifeltro prevents the virus from producing new viral particles, ultimately reducing the amount of HIV in the blood [2].
Can pifeltro be used in combination with other medications?
Pifeltro is often used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to treat HIV infection. When used in combination therapy, pifeltro has been shown to be effective in reducing the viral load in HIV-positive individuals. However, the specific combination regimen may depend on the individual's medical history, resistance testing, and other factors [3].
Does pifeltro have any side effects?
As with any medication, pifeltro may cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. In rare cases, pifeltro has been associated with more serious side effects, including liver damage and hypersensitivity reactions. Patients taking pifeltro should monitor their symptoms closely and inform their healthcare provider if they experience any adverse effects.
When was pifeltro approved, and how long will its patent last?
Pifeltro was approved by the US FDA in May 2014 [4]. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for pifeltro expires in 2031 (US patent US10111115B2), after which the medication may be manufactured by generic companies, potentially reducing the cost for patients [5].
References:
[1] AbbVie. (2022). VONJO Prescribing Information. https://www.abbvie.com/content/abbvie/jsp-assets/download-center/product-monographs/VonjoUSAPrescribingInformation.pdf
[2] US National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Dolutegravir/Lamivudine/Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a611024.html
[3] European Medicines Agency. (n.d.). VONJO. EPAR. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/ONJO
[4] US FDA. (2014, May 27). VONJO (Dolutegravir). FDA New Drug Approval. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/drf/index.cfm?event=GenericDrug.Detail&applNo=021-5328
Sources:
1. [1]. AbbVie.
2. [2]. US National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus).
3. [3]. European Medicines Agency (EMA).
4. [4]. US FDA.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com.