Abstract

The place of raltegravir in the clinical management of HIV-1 infection

Author(s): Ruxandra Calin, Christine Katlama

Raltegravir (RAL) is the first licensed drug of the new class of HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitors. Developed to target multiresistant HIV, RAL acts by preventing the integration of HIV DNA into cells and is now widely used in both naive and experienced patients. The high viral potency of the drug (ensuring a rapid viral decrease), the excellent safety profile with a good immediate tolerability and a favorable long-term metabolic profile, have placed RAL, the first approved integrase strand transfer inhibitor, in a key position within the HIV armamentarium. This article provides a brief overview of data on RAL efficacy, safety and tolerability, and on its use in special populations.