Drugs & Vitamins

Raltegravir Active Ingredients: Raltegravir Representative Names: Isentress What is raltegravir? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with raltegravir? What side effects might I notice from taking raltegravir? What should I watch for while taking raltegravir? Where can I keep my medicine? What is raltegravir? (Back to top) RALTEGRAVIR is an antiretroviral drug. It is used with other medicines to treat some strains of HIV. This medicine is not a cure for HIV. It will not stop the spread of HIV to others. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •liver disease •an unusual or allergic reaction to raltegravir, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. Do not cut, crush, or chew this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. For your anti-HIV therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine even if you feel better. Skipping doses may make the HIV virus resistant to this medicine and other medicines. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice. A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with raltegravir? (Back to top) •medicines for cholesterol like atorvastatin •rifampin Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects might I notice from taking raltegravir? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: •allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue •breathing difficulties •dark urine •fever or chills, sore throat •increased hunger or thirst •muscle pain or weakness •trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine •unusual bleeding or bruising •unusually weak or tired •weight gain around waist, back, or thinning of face, arms, legs Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •diarrhea •dizziness •headache •nausea, vomiting •stomach pain What should I watch for while taking raltegravir? (Back to top) Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor. You will need to have important blood work done while on this medicine. HIV is spread to others through sexual or blood contact. Talk to your doctor about how to stop the spread of HIV. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:10/26/2007 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.