A 32-year-old pregnant woman with HIV is being planned for ART. Which NRTI forms the backbone of most first-line regimens due to its potent antiviral activity, high barrier to resistance, and favorable safety profile in pregnancy?
- A Stavudine
- B Zidovudine
- C Emtricitabine or Lamivudine ✓
- D Didanosine
Correct answer: C. Emtricitabine or Lamivudine
Explanation
Emtricitabine (FTC) and lamivudine (3TC) are the preferred NRTI backbone components in first-line ART, including during pregnancy, due to potency, tolerability, and extensive safety data. Zidovudine is an alternative but carries more toxicity. Stavudine and didanosine are no longer recommended due to mitochondrial toxicity and peripheral neuropathy, pancreatitis, and lactic acidosis.
Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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