What type of drug is Tenofovir?

Tenofovir is classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and is specifically used in the treatment of infections caused by the hepatitis B virus. This class of drugs operates by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, essential for the replication of viral RNA into DNA, thus preventing the virus from multiplying.

In the context of hepatitis B, this action helps to reduce the viral load and slow down liver damage. Tenofovir is also used in combination therapies for HIV, highlighting its versatility; however, its designation as an NRTI tailored for hepatitis B underscores its primary and significant role in managing that particular viral infection. This specificity is a crucial point for understanding its mechanism of action and therapeutic application.