Raltegravir
Uses of Raltegravir
Raltegravir is commonly used to treat HIV Infection
How Raltegravir Works
Raltegravir is an HIV integrase inhibitor that is able to prevent the viral genome to incorporate into the host cell genome and thus preventing the gene expression and viral replication.
Side Effects of Raltegravir
Skin rash, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Liver dysfunction, Kidney failure, Increased triglycerides and cholesterol, Hyperglycaemia, Rhabdomyolysis, Osteonecrosis, Decreased white blood cells/platelets
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Raltegravir is safe to be used in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol can further damage the liver which is one of the side effects of Raltegravir. Thus, it is not advisable to consume alcohol during the treatment with Raltegravir.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicities but human studies have not shown any reproductive toxicities. Thus, caution use of Raltegravir has to be practised during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Raltegravir may cause side effects such as dizziness which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Caution use has to be practised in patients with severe liver impairment as safety and efficacy of Raltegravir have not been established in this group of patients. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Excretion of Raltegravir is found in animal milk but not in human breast milk. An HIV-infected woman should not breastfeed to prevent HIV transmission, developing viral resistance and serious side effects onto the breastfed babies. Please consult your doctor.