NNRTI

Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor

Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs) contribute to antiretroviral therapy (ART) by specifically targeting and inhibiting the HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme. NNRTIs bind to a distinct site on the enzyme, blocking its activity and preventing the virus from converting its RNA into DNA—a crucial step in HIV replication. By disrupting this process, NNRTIs help reduce the viral load and slow the progression of the infection.

In ART regimens, NNRTIs are often used in combination with other classes of antiretrovirals (like NRTIs and protease inhibitors) to enhance viral suppression, minimize resistance, and improve overall treatment efficacy.