subject: The Anti-hiv Drug [print this page] Norvir belongs to the class of drugs called protease inhibitors. It is a prescription medicine and it is always used in combination with other medications in the treatment of HIV infection. Norvir is recognized to raise the effects of other HIV medicines by improving their levels in the blood and making them more effective.
Norvir doesn't cure AIDS, instead reduces the growth or reproduction of the hiv, when used with other medications. It provides no help to cells that are already infected by the virus, but prevent the virus from infecting healthy cells. As a result it really helps to reduce the destruction of the body's immune system. Nevertheless, the patient may still experience certain symptoms and complications, such as infections even while on Norvir.
The way it works: The protease inhibitor, Norvir works by blocking the actions of protease enzymes, which is essential for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to multiply. HIV is the virus that is responsible for the growth of a disease called, AIDS (Acquired immuno-deficiency syndrome), where the T cells are destroyed thus decreasing the body's ability to combat with infections.
Norvir dosage: Norvir dosage depends on several factors, that include age, body weight, medical condition undergoing treatment and other medications currently in use. But, in most cases the recommended adult dose of Norvir is 600 milligrams twice a day. For youngsters between 2 and 16 years, the dosage is based on their body size. The doctor may begin with a lower dose and then increase it to the suggested dose to lower its side effects and other adverse reactions.
Norvir and the Pregnant HIV Carrier: The FDA designated Norvir as pregnancy B drug. It only means that studies conducted in rabbits and rats showed some decreased body weight of the fetus, early resorption, and delays in ossification. The drug must only be given in times of pregnancy when it is more beneficial than risky. It is, however, advised using it in lower dosage for expecting mothers with HIV.
In summary: Norvir is a prescription drug which is used along with other anti-HIV medications in the treatment of AIDS. Although it does not provide any cure to the disease, it inhibits the expansion and multiplication of the virus, so preventing it from affecting healthy cells in the body. It must be taken continuously as prescribed by the medical doctor. If stopped, the virus may develop resistance to the drug, thus making it hard to treat.
