Classification:
Isentress (or raltegravir) is a new drug in the new class of HIV medication called integrase inhibitors. Integrase is one of three viral enzymes necessary for HIV replication. Integrase does what the name implies, it integrates or blends HIV genetic material into the DNA of human CD4 cells. This blending of DNA makes it possible for the infected cell to make new copies of HIV. By interfering with integrase, these integrase inhibitors prevent HIV genetic material from integrating into the CD4 cell, thus stopping HIV replication.Understanding Integrase Inhibitors
Form:
- 400mg tablets
Dosage:
- The standard dose is one 400mg tablet twice daily
Instructions:
- Isentress can be taken with or without food.
- Isentress is taken as part of an HIV medication combination regimen.
- Doses should be taken around the same times each day, about 12 hours apart.
- It should be taken exactly as prescribed without missing or skipping doses.
Because Isentress is a new drug, your pharmacy will most likely have to order the drug. Do not start any new regimen containing Isentress until you have all the drugs in the regimen. Also, when it comes time for a refill, give the pharmacy a few extra days because the drug probably will need to be ordered before your prescription can be refilled.
Side Effects To Report To Your Doctor:
The most common side effects were found to be:- headache
- diarrhea
Medication Side Effects and How To Resolve Them
Special Precautions:
There is the potential for Isentress to interact with other prescription medications, including HIV medications, as well as over the counter medications. Therefore, notify your doctor of all prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking before starting Isentress.Additional Drug Information:
For more detailed information about the drug Isentress, use About.com's drug finder.Source AIDS Infonet; "Raltegravir (Isentress) Fact Sheet #471"; 5 Oct 2007.
