Isentress

Uses
Isentress (Raltegravir) is a treatment for 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.

Dosage and Administration
Isentress is available as a pack of 60 tablets. Each film-coated tablet contains 400mg of Raltegravir.

Take only the dosage that has been prescribed by your docot. Do not stop taking Isentress unless advised by your doctor.

Isentress 400mg is a film-coated tablet. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Swallow each tablet whole with a glass of water. Isentress can be taken with or without food.

Side effects
The most serious side effects of Raltegravir are listed above (Warning and Precautions).

Other side effects that Isentress can cause 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.

Precautions
Raltegravir can cause life-threatening skin reactions, allergic reactions and kidney problems. It is important that you are vigilant for any signs of reaction to this medicine, 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.