Isentress (Raltegravir)

Do’s

• Before initiating the use of Isentress and during each refill, read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist. If any questions arise, seek clarification from your healthcare provider.
• Take Isentress by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, typically once or twice daily.
• The dosage is determined based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
• The manufacturer recommends swallowing this medication whole. However, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's directions on how to take this medication, as many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be split or crushed.
• Adhere to the prescribed dosage and continue taking this medication (and other HIV medications) exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.

Don’ts

• Avoid using antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium while taking Isentress, as these antacids can reduce the effectiveness of raltegravir.
• Skipping doses, increasing the dose, or using the drug more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed should be avoided.
• Switching between the film-coated tablet, the chewable tablet, or the powder packet for oral suspension forms of raltegravir should not be done without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Common Side Effects:

• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Depression
• Hepatitis
• Genital herpes
• Kidney failure
• Indigestion or stomach area pain
• Vomiting
• Suicidal thoughts and actions
• Weakness

Serious Side Effects:

• Blood in the urine
• Burning or stinging of the skin
• Dark urine
• Decreased frequency or amount of urine
• Fast heartbeat
• Fever
• Hoarseness
• Increased thirst
• Irritation
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
• Light-colored stools
• Loss of appetite

Other Considerations:

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness while taking Isentress may be signs of a rare serious muscle problem that can lead to kidney problems.

Not all individuals will experience these side effects, and some may experience side effects not listed here. If you are concerned about any side effects while taking Isentress, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

Isentress may cause a severe or life-threatening skin reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. If you experience a rash, blisters, or sores on your skin, seek immediate medical attention.

There have been reports of liver problems, including liver failure, in patients taking Isentress. Monitor liver function while using this medication.

Isentress may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Individuals with phenylketonuria should be cautious when using Isentress chewable tablets, as they contain phenylalanine.

Women with HIV should not breastfeed, as the virus can be transmitted through breast milk.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Isentress.