SELZENTRY (MARAVIROC)

Selzentry Description

Selzentry is an antiviral drug prescribed for those diagnosed with a common type of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) during the early stages called R5-tropic. A blood test will determine if you have R5-tropic or the virus has progressed to being able to infect other cells. In cases where this occurs, you will be given other HIV drugs that can help reduce your viral load as Selzentry will be ineffective.

How a CCR5 Inhibitor Works

Selzentry contains Maraviroc, a CCR5 inhibitor drug that works by blocking the HIV from attaching to the CCR5 receptor so the virus cannot enter host cells to inject its own DNA and begin producing new viruses. Your doctor will prescribe Selzentry to be taken with two or three other HIV drugs in order to combat the virus at different stages and as back-up should HIV become resistant to one of the medications. Selzentry is not a cure for HIV and it will not protect you from transmitting HIV to others!

Conditions Treated by Selzentry

The first receptor HIV will attach to is the molecule found on the surface of CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell. Then the virus will use a co-receptor, either a CCR5 molecule or a CXCR4 molecule. If the CCR5 molecule is used, then you will be recommended to take Selzentry for R5-tropic to stop the virus from attaching. If the virus chooses CXCR4 molecule, or a combination of the two molecules, Selzentry will not be effective.

The purpose of HIV drugs is to decrease the amount of virus in your body. By reducing your viral load, your CD4 cells will increase and be able to help protect you against other infections. There is no cure for HIV, only treatments that can help your body function better and allow you to experience many more years doing the things you enjoy.

Before You Take Selzentry

Disclose other medical conditions and allergies you have to your doctor so it can be determined if Selzentry is safe for you to take. List all current non-prescription drugs and Rx medications you take or use, including homeopathic or herbal preparations and dietary or vitamin supplements as any of these could affect how Selzentry will work for you. Although Selzentry is not expected to harm an unborn baby, HIV can be passed on if you are not treated during your pregnancy.

Proper Use of Selzentry

You should not breast-feed your baby while taking Selzentry as the virus can be passed on through your milk. Keep Selzentry out of children’s reach and away from pets. Do not share Selzentry, or any of your medication, with anyone else as it has been specifically prescribed to you - for you.

Possible Side Effects of Selzentry

• Body aches or pains
• Chills
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness