Isentress and Isentress HD (Raltegravir)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Isentress and Isentress HD Used For?
Isentress and Isentress HD are medications used in combination with other anti-HIV treatments to manage HIV infection.
Primary Uses
They are primarily used to treat HIV in adults and children aged 2 years and older who weigh at least 25 kg.
How It Works
Isentress works by blocking HIV integrase, an enzyme essential for HIV replication, thereby reducing the viral load in the blood.
Good to know: Isentress is not addictive.
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How to Take Isentress and Isentress HD
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Isentress or Isentress HD for effective treatment.
Dosage Instructions
Adults should take one 400 mg Isentress tablet twice daily or two 600 mg Isentress HD tablets once daily. Children’s dosages will be determined by their doctor based on weight.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed dose.
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:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
- Tiredness
- Inflammation of nasal passages and throat
- Trouble sleeping
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Cough
- Fever
- Bronchitis
- Back pain
- Depression
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe skin reactions
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Frequent infections
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Wheezing
Important Warnings
It's crucial to understand the warnings associated with Isentress and Isentress HD.
Who Should Not Take Isentress and Isentress HD
Do not take Isentress if you are allergic to raltegravir or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor about any other medical conditions, medications you are taking, or allergies.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Isentress should not be taken during pregnancy unless advised by your doctor. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Isentress, affecting its effectiveness.
- Atazanavir
- Antacids
- Rifampin
- Tipranavir/Ritonavir
- Phenytoin
- Phenobarbitone
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating machinery while on Isentress.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while taking Isentress.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Isentress affects you.
Storage
Store Isentress in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Isentress and Isentress HD to work can vary by individual, but they are designed to help reduce the amount of HIV in the blood.
Isentress can be taken with or without food.
No, Isentress is not considered addictive.
Stopping Isentress suddenly can lead to an increase in the virus in your blood and may cause HIV to become harder to treat.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Isentress.
Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Isentress.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any medications with their doctor before starting Isentress.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
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.