Isentress

Raltegravir, the active ingredient in Isentress, is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor presented as a tablet for oral use. It belongs to the antiretroviral therapeutic class and is indicated for the treatment of HIV‑1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents, helping to suppress viral replication in adults, adolescents and children.

GNH USA supplies Isentress as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, ensuring quality‑assured product availability across regulated markets. The company adheres to stringent manufacturing and distribution standards to meet global health requirements.

Isentress (raltegravir) is used in antiretroviral therapy to target HIV‑1 replication.

- HIV‑1 infection (adults): Reduces plasma viral load when combined with other antiretroviral agents, supporting immune recovery. - HIV‑1 infection (adolescents): Contributes to sustained viral suppression as part of a complete regimen, improving CD4 counts. - HIV‑1 infection (children): Enables effective viral control within pediatric combination therapy, aiding growth and development.

Raltegravir may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea - Diarrhea - Headache - Fatigue

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe allergic reactions, including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome - Liver toxicity manifested by elevated transaminases - Rhabdomyolysis or other serious muscle injury

Before initiating therapy, several safety considerations should be observed.

- Assess liver function: monitor transaminases before initiating therapy and periodically during treatment. - Evaluate renal function: adjust use in patients with severe renal impairment as recommended. - Review concomitant medications: avoid strong CYP3A inducers that may lower raltegravir exposure. - Pregnancy considerations: category B; discuss potential risks and benefits with healthcare provider. - Adherence importance: maintain consistent dosing to prevent development of resistance. - Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, and protect from moisture.

Raltegravir can interact with several medicines, requiring attention to avoid reduced efficacy or increased toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): markedly reduce raltegravir plasma concentrations, compromising efficacy. - Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may decrease absorption if taken simultaneously; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir): may increase raltegravir levels, requiring monitoring for toxicity. - HIV non‑nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., efavirenz): may modestly affect raltegravir exposure. - Statins (e.g., simvastatin): potential for increased muscle toxicity; monitor creatine kinase.