Isentress 400 Mg Tablet

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Akansha Kaushal

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Dr. Akansha Kaushal

Clinical Pharmacologist and Drug Safety Expert

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Written by Julian Carter

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Julian Carter

MBA in Pharmaceutical Management

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What is Isentress 400 mg​?

Isentress 400 mg is an antiretroviral medicine used primarily to treat HIV. It contains Raltegravir, which belongs to a class of medications called integrase inhibitors. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called HIV integrase, which is required for the virus to reproduce. 

Isentress is often used in conjunction with other HIV medicines as part of a Combination HIV therapy plan. The medication is extensively manufactured by MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.

Uses of Isentress 400 mg

Isentress 400 mg is highly effective against HIV in the following manner:

• Used in conjunction with other antiretroviral medications to manage HIV infection and reduce viral load.
• When used as recommended, it helps to lower the risk of HIV transmission to others.
• Sometimes used as part of a Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) regimen following possible HIV exposure.
• Helps to boost the immune system, decreasing the danger of opportunistic infections.

Working and benefits of Raltegravir

Raltegravir in Isentress is an HIV-1 Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor (INSTI) that inhibits the Integrase enzyme required for HIV replication. The Integrase enzyme enables the virus to insert genetic information into the DNA of human immune cells. 

By blocking this phase, Raltegravir stops HIV from integrating into the host genome, preventing viral replication and lowering the total viral count in the body. Raltegravir, unlike some other antiretroviral medications, has little effect on other cellular functions, making it highly selective to HIV.

The major advantages of Raltegravir are:

• Raltegravir's key advantage is its ability to successfully decrease HIV viral load and enhance human immune cell count, increasing immunological function and lowering the risk of opportunistic infections.
• Another significant advantage is its reduced risk of drug interactions as compared to protease inhibitors and other antiretroviral classes, making it appropriate for people taking several medications.
• It has an effective safety profile, with minimal metabolic side effects such as lipid abnormalities and insulin resistance, which are frequent with other HIV medications
• Additionally, Raltegravir is especially beneficial for individuals with drug-resistant HIV strains since it offers an effective option when other therapies have failed. 

Dosage and how to take Isentress 400 mg

Take Isentress 400 mg as directed by your doctor. Here are some common usage guidelines:

• Take the medicine every 12 hours, particularly at the same time or as suggested by your doctor.
• Swallow whole. Never crush, chew, or split the tablet.
• Avoid taking antacids (particularly those containing aluminum or magnesium) within two hours of Isentress intake.
• The dose will be determined by your healthcare provider.

Side effects

Although Isentress 400 mg is well-tolerated, it can lead to some potential side effects like:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea

These side effects are mild and do not require any medical aid. Once your body adjusts to the medication, the side effects often vanish. If persists or worsens, reach out to your doctor for further assistance.

Interactions

Isentress tablets can interact with some medications, diseases, and food items, further worsening your condition.

Drug Interactions

Here are some drug interactions to be considered while having the medicine:

• Antacids
• Rifampin
• H2 Blockers like Ranitidine
• Warfarin
• Other HIV medicines
• Metformin

These are only a few medicines. Consult your doctor for detailed information regarding potential drug interactions to avoid any complications.

Disease Interactions

Isentress 400mg may interact with specific disorders. Here are some significant interactions to be aware of:

• Diabetes: Isentress may have a minor effect on blood sugar levels; thus, people with diabetes should be monitored closely.
• Liver disease: If you have moderate to severe liver impairment, Isentress should be used with caution since it is metabolized in the liver.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU): Some formulations include Phenylalanine, which might be dangerous to those with PKU.
• Myopathy: Can increase the risk of muscular discomfort, weakening, and breakdown, mainly when used with statins or other myotoxic medications.

Food Interactions 

Although no significant food interactions have been reported, the  following things need to be considered:

• High-fat meal: High-fat meal may slightly raise Raltegravir levels but does not necessitate dosage modifications.
• Polyvalent cations: Polyvalent cations in antacids, dairy products, and supplements may limit Raltegravir absorption. Avoid taking them simultaneously; space out the dosages by at least 4 hours.

Precautions

The following precautions should be taken while taking the medicine to enhance its effectiveness and reduce the chances of potential side effects:

• Isentress helps manage HIV but does not cure it; continue to take precautions to avoid HIV transmission.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, as some HIV medications may impair glucose metabolism.
• If you have liver illness, such as Hepatitis B or C, visit your doctor since this medicine may affect liver function.
• Get medical help immediately if you experience severe skin reactions, muscular pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Do not use the medicine if you are pregnant.

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