The present invention relates to the use of methyl pyruvic acid (a methyl ester of pyruvic acid) and/or methyl pyruvate (methyl pyruvate is the ionized form of methyl pyruvic acid) for the purpose of increasing cellular energy production thereby providing energy for the continuous activation of PARP-1 and up-regulation of PPAR. It is well known that chronic activation of PARP causes ATP and NAD depletion with concomitant cell death. PARP is known to prevent HIV replication by competitive receptor inhibition. Use of methyl pyruvate and/or methyl pyruvic acid can be effective when administered orally or infused on either a chronic and/or acute basis. In the following text, the terms "methyl pyruvate, methyl pyruvate compounds, methyl pyruvic acid" are used interchangeably.