Reatix is a combination antiretroviral therapy used in the management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. It includes four active ingredients: tenofovir, emtricitabine, atazanavir, and ritonavir. Each of these medicines plays a specific role in preventing the virus from multiplying and damaging the immune system. Reatix is commonly prescribed for adults living with HIV, either as part of initial therapy or as part of a switch from other regimens under medical guidance.

Mechanism of Action:
Reatix works by combining different classes of antiretroviral agents that target HIV at various stages of its life cycle:

• Tenofovir is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It interferes with the reverse transcription process, a critical step the virus needs to make new copies of its genetic material.

• Emtricitabine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It works similarly by mimicking a natural DNA building block, getting incorporated into the viral DNA and causing the chain to stop growing.

• Atazanavir is a protease inhibitor. It prevents the HIV protease enzyme from processing viral proteins properly, which results in the production of immature and non-infectious virus particles.

• Ritonavir is not only a protease inhibitor but also acts as a pharmacokinetic booster. It increases the effectiveness of atazanavir by slowing its breakdown in the body, allowing it to stay active for longer periods.

Uses:
Reatix is used for:

• The treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents weighing at least thirty-five kilograms.

• It is typically recommended for patients who are either new to HIV treatment or those who require a boosted protease inhibitor-based regimen for better viral control.

  Adverse Effects:
  While Reatix is effective, it may cause some side effects, which can vary in intensity from person to person. Commonly reported effects include:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Headache

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes due to increased bilirubin, often seen with atazanavir