Isentress 400mg Raltegravir Tablets

Introduction to Isentress 400mg Tablets

Uses of Isentress 400 mg 

Isentress 400 mg tablets, containing the active ingredient Raltegravir, are primarily used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 2 kg. Here are the key uses of Isentress 400 mg:

• HIV infection
• First-line Treatment
• Treatment-Experienced Patients
• Pediatric HIV-1 Infection
• Combination Therapy
• Maintenance Therapy

How Does Isentress 400 Works?

Isentress 400 mg Tablet has an active ingredient; Raltegravir, an antiviral medication which prevents the increase of the virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses & clears up your infection.

Raltegravir (as an integrase inhibitor) targets integrase, an HIV enzyme which integrates the viral genetic material into human chromosomes, a significant step in the pathogenesis of HIV. This drug is metabolized away via Glucuronidation.

Side Effects of Isentress

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Elevated Liver Enzymes

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe Allergic Reactions
• Hypersensitivity
• Depression or Suicidal Thoughts
• Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS)

Dosage of Isentress 400 mg

Isentress 400 mg Tablet contains an active ingredient, Raltegravir, which is used in the treatment of HIV infection. This medicine is available in different substitutes & strengths & has got to be purchased or given on doctor’s prescription only. You must consult your physician for adjustment of dosage & time of the medicine because age and severity of the disease differ from person to person and it can only be best judged by your doctor.

Adults are advised to take Isentress 400 mg Tablet at a fixed time with or without food as instructed by your Doctor. You must take Isentress 400 mg Tablet regularly on time for better results.

How to Manage Side Effects?

• Consult Your Doctor: If you experience any side effects while taking Isentress 400, talk to your doctor immediately.
• Follow Prescribed Dosage: Take Isentress 400 as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
• Inform Your Doctor: Before taking Isentress 400, inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, medications, or supplements you are currently taking.
• Take with Food: If Isentress 400 causes stomach upset, taking it with food may help alleviate this side effect.
• Stay Hydrated: Ensure you stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor Blood Tests: Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your liver function, kidney function, and other potential side effects.

Warnings & Precautions

1. Severe skin reactions:

• Stop the medicine and call your doctor if you get a rash, fever, or blisters.

2. Muscle pain or weakness:

• Can cause serious muscle problems (rhabdomyolysis). Tell your doctor if you feel unusually weak or sore.

3. Liver problems:

• May affect liver function, especially if you already have hepatitis B or C. Liver tests may be needed.

4. Drug interactions:

• Avoid certain medicines like aluminum/magnesium antacids and rifampin. Always check with your doctor before starting new meds.

5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Not recommended unless clearly needed. Do not breastfeed if you have HIV.

6. For children:

• Safe for babies as young as 4 weeks and at least 3 kg, but the dose must be adjusted.

Storage

• Store at room temperature: Keep between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep away from moisture and heat: Avoid storing in bathrooms or near sinks.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed: Protect the tablets from air and humidity.
• Store in original packaging: Especially important if your tablets come with a desiccant (moisture absorber)—do not remove it.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Raltegravir a Protease Inhibitor?

No. Raltegravir is an anti HIV drug. It does not have any known inhibitory effect on enzyme protease.

2. How Long Do I Need to Take Isentress?

Isentress is typically used as a long-term treatment for HIV-1 infection. It’s important to continue taking the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well, to maintain viral suppression and reduce the risk of HIV-related complications.

3. What Should I Do if I Miss a Dose of Isentress?

If you miss a dose of Isentress, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to make up for a missed dose.