Raltegravir

General English name: Raltegravir

Brand: Isentress

Application: Acquired Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV) Infection

 

 

Drug information for Raltegravir

Drug Information: Raltgravir is an antiretroviral drug. It is used to control the symptoms of HIV infection. Raltgravir reduces the progression and proliferation of HIV but is not a definitive treatment. The HIV virus destroys cells in the body called CD4 cells. These cells are very important for the body to defend against a variety of infections. If HIV infection is not treated, the immune system gradually weakens and loses the ability to fight off various infections. Raltgravir is an inhibitor of integrase. This drug inhibits an enzyme that causes the virus to multiply.

Therefore, by taking this drug, the body’s ability to reproduce HIV is reduced. This mechanism helps to improve the immune system.

Raltgravir is prescribed in combination with other medicines to treat HIV. Combination therapy for HIV reduces the virus’ resistance to drugs. The use of combination drugs also increases the effectiveness of drugs.

 

Contraindications to Raltegravir

• Note the expiration date of Raltgravir and do not take it if it has expired.
• Never give Raltgravir to anyone else, even if you have the same symptoms.
• Do not take Raltgravir more than the dose prescribed by your doctor.
• Check for Raltgravir drug interactions and be sure to tell your doctor what other medications you are taking.

 

Drug interaction of Raltegravir

Drug interactions may alter drug performance and increase the risk of serious side effects. Make a list of all the medicines (including prescription / over-the-counter and herbal medicines) you use and share them with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not change the dose of your medicine without consulting your doctor or stop taking the medicine.

Raltgravir may interact with orlistat.

 

Tips to consider before taking Raltegravir

Some medications cannot be prescribed under certain conditions, and some medications may be prescribed if additional treatment is needed; Therefore, it is best for your doctor to be aware of the following before taking Raltgravir:

• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breast-feeding.
• If you have kidney or liver problems.
• If you have ever had any mental health problems.
• If you are taking certain medications. These medicines include all the medicines available, whether you are prescribed them or taking them without a doctor’s prescription, such as herbal medicines and complementary medicines.
• If you have a history of an allergic reaction to another medicine.

 

Possible side effects of Raltegravir

All medications can cause side effects. But many consumers also do not experience any side effects. Some side effects go away shortly after taking the medicine. In case of persistent side effects, the doctor should be informed:

• Urticaria: Tell your doctor immediately if the urticaria becomes more severe.
• Boredom, bloating, abdominal pain: Eat simple foods and avoid spicy and high-fat foods.
• Diarrhea: Drink plenty of water to replenish lost water.
• Weakness and fatigue: In this situation, avoid driving and working with tools.
• Headache: Ask your doctor to prescribe a suitable painkiller.
• Decreased appetite, sleep problems, overheating, and abnormal sleep: Talk to your doctor if any of these things bother you.
• Changes in blood test results: Your doctor will check these medications.
• Important Note: Although urticaria is common in people taking this medicine, it can be a sign of a drug allergy if the urticaria becomes severe. Therefore, if you experience any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor immediately:
• Severe blisters on the skin, fever, muscle and joint pain, jaundice
• Tell your doctor if you notice any other symptoms that you think may be due to Raltgravir.

 

How to store Raltegravir

Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Store the medicine in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.