Efavirenz is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor used to treat HIV infection or prevent the spread of HIV. When HIV infects a cell, the virus first binds and fuses with the cell, releasing its nucleocapsid containing its RNA and reverse transcriptase into the cytosol of the cell. The reverse transcriptase converts the viral RNA into viral DNA in the cytosol. The viral DNA goes to the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex where it undergoes the process of transcription. The new viral RNA formed from transcription is transported back to the cytosol through the nuclear pore complex and translation occurs to produce viral proteins. These viral proteins are assembled and new HIV viruses bud from the cell. Abacavir enters the cell and inhibits the activity of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase by binding to a non-catalytic site of the enzyme in a reversible and non-competitive manner. This prevents the formation of viral DNA and therefore, less viral proteins are produced, leading to a reduction in new viruses being formed. NNRTIs as a drug class are commonly associated with central nervous system (CNS) effects. These effects include impaired concentration, vivid or abnormal dreams, insomnia, suicidal ideation, nausea, and vomiting.

Efavirenz Anti-Viral Pathway References