| Brand Name: |
Isentress |
| Generic Name: |
Raltegravir |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
MSD |
What is Isentress?
Isentress (Raltegravir) is an antiviral medicine used in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. Raltegravir is classified as an integrase inhibitor and works by blocking the actions of an enzyme called integrase which prevent the virus from multiplying and reducing the amount of HIV in the body. Aways take Isentress (Raltegravir) in combination with other HIV medications.
How is Isentress used?
Each pack of Isentress contains 60 x 400mg film-coated tablets.
Most adults will be given a daily dose of one 400mg tablet. Follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor.
Isentress tablets are film-coated. They should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Isentress can be taken with or without water.
Adverse effects
See the above warnings and precautions for serious side effects and complications that can occur when taking Isentress.
Other side effects that can occur include:
- Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), a condition that sometimes occurs when the immune system begins to recover after treatment with an HIV medicine. As the immune system gets stronger, it may have an increased response to a previously hidden infection.
- Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. This may be a sign of a rare but serious muscle problem that can lead to kidney problems.
If you notice any other side effects, or feel generally unwell due to this medicine, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Warnings
Raltegravir can cause life-threatening skin reactions, allergic reactions and kidney problems in rare cases. It is important that you continually check for any signs of reaction to Isentress, particularly redness of the skin, spreading rash or blistering and peeling of the skin.
Also tell your doctor if you develop a skin rash along with any of the following:
- fever
- general ill feeling
- extreme tiredness
- muscle or joint aches
- blisters or sores in your mouth
- blisters or peeling of your skin
- redness or swelling of your eyes
- swelling of your mouth or face
- trouble breathing
Signs of allergic reaction or liver damage are as follows:
- yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
- dark-colored urine
- light-colored bowel movements
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area
Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
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