RALTEGRAVIR POTASSIUM
Raltegravir Potassium is an antiretroviral medication belonging to the integrase inhibitor class. It works by blocking the HIV integrase enzyme, which is essential for viral replication. By preventing the integration of viral DNA into the host genome, it helps control HIV infection and reduces viral load in the body.- Treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infection in adults and children. - Can be used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for both treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients.
- Adults: Typically 400 mg orally twice daily, or 1200 mg once daily (depending on the regimen). - Children (?4 weeks and weighing ?3 kg): Dose is weight-based; follow pediatric guidelines. - Take with or without food. - Dose adjustments may be required for patients taking certain medications or with specific health conditions.
- Known hypersensitivity to Raltegravir or any component of the formulation. - Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment; dose adjustment may be required.
- Monitor liver function in patients with hepatitis B or C co-infection. - Can cause immune reconstitution syndrome in patients starting antiretroviral therapy. - Not recommended as monotherapy. - Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk.
- Common: Headache, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia. - Less common: Rash, fever, dizziness, increased liver enzymes. - Rare but serious: Severe skin reactions, hypersensitivity reactions, rhabdomyolysis, myopathy.
- Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may reduce absorption; take at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after Raltegravir. - Rifampin may decrease plasma levels; dosage adjustment may be required. - Generally has fewer interactions compared to other antiretroviral drugs, but always check with a healthcare provider.
