Description
ISENTRESS (Raltegravir) can be prescribed as part of a combination of drugs to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.
HIV is a virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is a long-term infection that is eventually fatal if left untreated. Successful treatment of HIV infection can delay the development of AIDS, and can sometimes cause long-term remission.
ISENTRESS works by blocking a critical protein involved in HIV replication called HIV-1 integrase. ISENTRESS exhibits antiviral activity by blocking HIV-1 integrase, which prevents the virus from replicating.
Directions
Take ISENTRESS exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
For patients who have never taken ISENTRESS, the dose is 400 mg by mouth twice daily OR 1200 mg by mouth once daily.
Patients who have used ISENTRESS in the past should take 400 mg by mouth twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in ISENTRESS is raltegravir.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C20H21FN6O5 |
License |
AU, EU EMA, US FDA |
Bioavailability |
60% |
Legal status |
RX Only |
Chemical Name |
Raltegravir |
Elimination half-life |
9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
400mg (60 tablets), 600mg (60 tablets) |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Isentress |
Protein binding |
83% |
PubChem CID |
54671008 |
MedlinePlus |
a608004 |
ChEBI |
82960 |
ATC code |
J05AJ01 |
DrugBank |
DB06817 |
KEGG |
D06676 |
Routes of administration |
Oral |
Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medications. Drug interactions can raise or lower the amount of ISENTRESS in the blood, which can cause the treatment to fail or to be too toxic.
Some examples of drugs that interact with ISENTRESS include:
- Aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids
- Calcium carbonate
- Carbamazepine
- Etravirine
- Fosamprenavir
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Rifampin
- Tipranavir/ritonavir
Cautions
Once-daily dosing cannot be used for pregnant patients.
Severe skin reactions have been reported like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrosis. Call your doctor if you have any skin reactions while taking ISENTRESS.
The prescriber should monitor for Immune Reconstitution Syndrome while taking ISENTRESS.
The chewable tablet should be used with caution in patients with phenylketonuria.
Side Effects
The following are common ISENTRESS side effects:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nausea
References
Isentress [package insert]. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck; 2007.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 11553