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EFV
EFV (efavirenz) is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that blocks HIV reverse transcriptase, preventing the virus from converting its RNA genome into DNA and replicating.
EFV (efavirenz) is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that blocks HIV reverse transcriptase, preventing the virus from converting its RNA genome into DNA and replicating. Used for HIV-1 infection (in combination antiretroviral therapy).
At a glance
| Generic name | EFV |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Efavirenz, Sustiva® |
| Sponsor | Advancing Clinical Therapeutics Globally for HIV/AIDS and Other Infections |
| Drug class | Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) |
| Target | HIV reverse transcriptase |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Infectious Disease |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Efavirenz binds directly to HIV reverse transcriptase and inhibits its enzymatic activity, blocking the critical step of reverse transcription. This prevents integration of viral DNA into the host genome and stops HIV replication. It is typically used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) to suppress viral load.
Approved indications
- HIV-1 infection (in combination antiretroviral therapy)
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Impaired concentration
- Insomnia
- Rash
- Nausea
- Headache
- Neuropsychiatric effects (depression, suicidal ideation)
Key clinical trials
- The T Cell Activator of Cell Killing ("TACK") IT ON" STUDY (NA)
- A Study to Provide Continued Access to Study Drug to Children and Adolescents Who Have Completed Clinical Studies Involving Gilead HIV Treatments (PHASE4)
- Pharmacokinetic Study of Antiretroviral Drugs and Related Drugs During and After Pregnancy
- Efavirenz (EFV) Intensification (PHASE4)
- Contributing Factors for Poor HIV Treatment Response in Children With TB/HIV Coinfection
- Safety & Efficacy of Dual Therapy With Raltegravir/Lamivudine (PHASE3)
- A Study to Evaluate the Effects of Cenicriviroc Mesylate on Arterial Inflammation in People Living With HIV (PHASE2)
- Study To Evaluate Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (F/TAF) in Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1) Infected Children and Adolescents Virologically Suppressed on a 2-Nucleoside/Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (2-NRTI)-Containing Regimen (PHASE2, PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |