Prezista (Darunavir)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Prezista Used For?
Prezista is an antiretroviral medication used to manage HIV infection. It helps reduce the amount of HIV in the body, improving the immune system and lowering the risk of HIV-related illnesses.
Primary Uses
Used for treating HIV infection in adults and children aged 6 years and older who weigh more than 20 kg.
How It Works
Prezista works by inhibiting the protease enzyme, which is essential for the HIV virus to replicate, thereby reducing the viral load in the body.
Good to know: Prezista is not addictive.
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How to Take Prezista
Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking Prezista. It is important to take it with food for optimal effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dose for adults is 800 mg once daily or 600 mg twice daily, combined with 100 mg of ritonavir or 150 mg of cobicistat. For children, the dosage is based on their weight.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose within 12 hours for once-daily dosing, take it immediately with food. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose. For twice-daily dosing, take it within 6 hours; otherwise, skip it.
Important: Do not double your 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:
- nausea
- vomiting
- headache
- abdominal pain
- diarrhoea
- indigestion
- passing wind
- rash
- itching or hives
- weakness or lack of energy
- feeling tired
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
- increased blood sugar levels
- muscle pain or weakness
- signs of infection
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations to keep in mind while using Prezista.
Who Should Not Take Prezista
Do not use Prezista if you are allergic to darunavir, cobicistat, ritonavir, or any other ingredients in the medication. Avoid it if you are taking certain medications that can interact adversely.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, diabetes, or a history of bleeding disorders.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not take Prezista with cobicistat during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically approved by your doctor.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Prezista, affecting its effectiveness.
- amiodarone
- bepridil
- disopyramide
- flecainide
- mexiletine
- propafenone
- lidocaine
- quinidine
- dronedarone
- ivabradine
- ranolazine
- midazolam
- triazolam
- ergot alkaloids
- astemizole
- terfenadine
- cisapride
- lurasidone
- pimozide
- alfuzosin
- sildenafil
- colchicine
- lovastatin
- simvastatin
- lomitapide
- apixaban
- carbamazepine
- phenobarbital
- phenytoin
- rifampicin
- elbasvir/grazoprevir
- St John's wort
- naloxegol
- dapoxetine
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or operating machinery while on Prezista.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol consumption as it may affect your treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy after taking Prezista.
Storage
Store Prezista below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Prezista, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 in Australia or 0800 POISON in New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Prezista to work can vary, but it is important to take it consistently as prescribed.
Yes, Prezista should always be taken with food to ensure proper absorption.
No, Prezista is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Prezista without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to increased viral load.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Prezista.
Weight changes can occur with HIV medications, but it varies by individual.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor to ensure safety and appropriate monitoring.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember within the specified time frame, but do not double the 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.