Enfuvirtide

FDA approved

Enfuvirtide (Fuzeon) is a 36-amino acid HIV fusion inhibitor approved by the FDA in 2003. It was the first drug to block HIV from entering cells and is now used mainly for heavily treatment-experienced patients.

At a glance

Where it acts: Immune & defense
Regulatory status: FDA approvedApproved by the U.S. FDA for at least one medical use.

Mechanism of Action

Enfuvirtide mimics a region of the HIV gp41 envelope protein. It binds gp41 and prevents the structural change needed for the virus to fuse with the CD4 cell membrane, stopping infection of new cells.

Typical Dosage (Research)

Prescription-only medicine. Dosing is set by a physician according to the FDA-approved label and the condition being treated.

Side Effects & Risks

Injection site reactions occur in nearly all patients (pain, hard lumps, redness); also diarrhea, nausea and fatigue.

Increased rate of bacterial pneumonia, hypersensitivity reactions, and nerve injury if injected with a needle-free device near nerves.

Who Uses Enfuvirtide

Adults and children 6 and older with HIV-1 that is still replicating despite other antiretroviral therapy.