Intelence (Etravirine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Intelence Used For?
Intelence is a medication that helps manage HIV infection by reducing the amount of the virus in the body, thereby improving the immune system and lowering the risk of HIV-related illnesses.
Primary Uses
Intelence is primarily used to treat adults infected with HIV, particularly those who have previously received other anti-HIV treatments.
How It Works
Intelence works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is crucial for HIV replication, thus helping to control the infection.
Good to know: Intelence is not addictive.
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How to Take Intelence
It is essential to take Intelence as prescribed by your doctor, ensuring it is taken after meals for optimal absorption.
Dosage Instructions
The standard dosage of Intelence is 200 mg taken twice daily, always after a meal. If using 100 mg tablets, take two tablets in the morning and two in the evening. If using 200 mg tablets, take one in the morning and one in the evening.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and remember within 6 hours, take it immediately after a meal. If more than 6 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- skin rash
- diarrhoea
- nausea
- abdominal pain
- vomiting
- heartburn
- gas
- fatigue
- tingling or pain in hands or feet
- headache
- sleeplessness
- anxiety
- night sweats
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- allergic reactions (rash, itching, shortness of breath)
- muscle pain or weakness
- signs of infection (fever, rash)
Impulse Control Issues
There is a potential risk of impulse control issues with some patients taking anti-HIV medications.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind when using Intelence.
Who Should Not Take Intelence
Do not use Intelence if you have a known allergy to etravirine or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, a history of infections, or if you notice any changes in body fat distribution.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as well as if you are breastfeeding, since HIV-infected mothers should not breastfeed.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Intelence has only been studied in a limited number of elderly patients; discuss its use with your doctor.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Intelence, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products as they may affect how Intelence works.
- carbamazepine
- phenobarbital
- phenytoin
- rifampicin
- rifapentine
- St John's wort
- elbasvir/grazoprevir
- amiodarone
- warfarin
- fluconazole
- clarithromycin
- artemether/lumefantrine
- rifabutin
- boceprevir
- daclatasvir
- diazepam
- dexamethasone
- atorvastatin
- cyclosporine
- sildenafil
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while on Intelence.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol use while taking Intelence.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Wait to see how Intelence affects you before driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Intelence below 30°C in its original container, tightly closed to protect from moisture, and keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Intelence, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Intelence to show effects can vary; consult your doctor for personalized information.
Yes, it is important to take Intelence after meals for optimal absorption.
No, Intelence is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Intelence without consulting your doctor, as it may increase the risk of the virus developing resistance.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Intelence.
Weight changes can occur with HIV treatments, but specific effects of Intelence should be discussed with your doctor.
Elderly patients should discuss the use of Intelence with their doctor due to limited studies in this age group.
If you miss a dose within 6 hours, take it after a meal. If more than 6 hours have passed, skip the dose and continue as usual.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.