Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes a viral infection that, left untreated, results in the development of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS. Currently, there is no cure for HIV infection, nor is there a preventative or therapeutic vaccine. Although there are more than two dozen antiretroviral drugs on the market, all have limitations and resistant strains of HIV continue to emerge.
As a result, industry continues to focus on the development of new antiviral agents that offer effective treatment for patients who no longer respond to existing therapy. In order to address these unmet medical needs, Achillion is developing elvucitabine, as well as other new compounds, for the treatment of HIV.
Introduction to Viruses and HIV
An estimated 40 million people worldwide are infected with HIV and over 25 million people have died from AIDS since the epidemic began. more
Market Challenges
Because of its high spontaneous mutation rate, HIV is especially prone to the development of resistance to a single therapeutic drug. As a result, the treatment paradigm for HIV has evolved from monotherapy to triple combination treatment known as highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART. more
Current Market Opportunity
Achillion's lead product candidate, elvucitabine, has demonstrated potent antiviral activity against HIV, including strains resistant to other NRTIs. Elvucitabine has also demonstrated a significantly longer half-life than the other marketed drugs in its class and subsequently may delay the emergence of resistance and prolong the effectiveness of therapy. more
Elvucitabine Fact Sheet
Click here to access a printer-ready detailed Fact Sheet on elvucitabine.
