Amprenavir - how does it prevent the multiplication of HIV virus?

Amprenavir is an antiviral medication in a group of HIV medicines called protease inhibitors. Amprenavir prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cells from multiplying in your body.

Protease Inhibitors (PIs) work by interfering with the enzyme HIV protease, which in turn interrupts HIV replication at a later stage in its life cycle. This causes HIV particles in the body to become structurally disorganized and noninfectious. (Inhibition of HIV protease renders the enzyme incapable of processing the gag-pol polyprotein precursor which leads to production of non-infectious immature HIV particles).

PIs can cause a significant number of side effects when they interact with certain other medications metabolized by a particular enzyme system in the liver.

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Amprenavir may slow down the destruction of the immune system caused by HIV. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. However, amprenavir will not cure or prevent HIV infection, and it will not keep you from spreading the virus to other people. Patients who are taking amprenavir may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.

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