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Vicriviroc maleate
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Drug Class: Entry and Fusion Inhibitors
Vicriviroc, also known as SCH-D, is a type of medicine called an entry inhibitor. It is a drug also referred to as a chemokine antagonist. Entry inhibitors work by preventing HIV from infecting human cells.
In order to infect a cell, HIV must recognize and bind to a receptor on the cell's surface. Once HIV is attached to the cell surface, it can enter and infect the cell. Vicriviroc is a small molecule that binds to one of the cell's HIV receptors called CCR5. Vicriviroc blocks HIV from attaching to CCR5, preventing the virus from entering and infecting the cell.

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Vicriviroc is an investigational medicine that is not yet approved by the FDA for use outside of clinical trials. It is being studied for the treatment of HIV infection. Vicriviroc was granted fast-track status by the FDA in 2005.
A Phase II study in treatment-naive patients was stopped in October 2005 because the virus increased to detectable levels in some patients taking vicriviroc and Combivir. Patients taking this combination should talk with their doctors about starting a different treatment regimen.
In another Phase II study in treatment-experienced patients, eight cases of cancer were reported in patients taking vicriviroc, mostly at the 5-mg dose. A direct relationship between vicriviroc and the cancers was not found, and the study continued with higher doses of vicriviroc. A set of Phase III studies are ongoing as well.
This medicine does not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS and dose not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.

Dosage Form/Administration
Vicriviroc comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth in various doses in clinical studies.

Contraindications
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects
Along with its desired effects, vicriviroc may cause some unwanted effects. These side effects are not yet known. So far, studies in humans have reported no serious side effects with vicriviroc. No serious side effects led to the ending of the Phase II study in treatment-naive patients. Common, less serious side effects of vicriviroc that occurred in individuals in Phase II/III trials include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and abdominal pain. No significant, serious side effects have occurred in these ongoing trials.

Drug and Food Interactions
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Vicriviroc maleate.

Manufacturer Information
Vicriviroc maleate
  Schering - Plough Corp
  2000 Galloping Hill Rd
  Kenilworth,  NJ  07033-0530
  (800) 526-4099
    
Updated April 1, 2009