Isentress

Raltegravir, the active ingredient in Isentress, is a integrase strand transfer inhibitor presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It is used to treat HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents in adults and children. It is indicated for patients with HIV-1 infection, including those who are treatment‑naïve or have experienced resistance to other antiretrovirals.

GNH USA supplies Isentress as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, with robust quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Isentress (raltegravir) is used in the management of HIV‑1 infection, a viral disease that requires combination antiretroviral therapy.

HIV‑1 infection (treatment‑naïve): reduces plasma viral load when combined with a backbone regimen of two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. HIV‑1 infection (treatment‑experienced): provides an effective option for patients with resistance to other drug classes. Pediatric HIV‑1 infection (≥2 years of age): approved for use in combination therapy to achieve virologic suppression.

Common adverse reactions to raltegravir are generally mild and transient, while rare events may be serious.

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

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome) - Elevated liver enzymes or hepatic injury - Lactic acidosis or severe metabolic disturbances

When prescribing raltegravir, clinicians should consider several safety and handling precautions.

Assess renal function: adjust therapy in patients with severe renal impairment. Monitor liver enzymes: watch for signs of hepatic toxicity during treatment. Check for hypersensitivity: discontinue if severe rash or allergic reaction occurs. Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to integrase inhibitors. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: discuss potential risks with the prescriber before use. Store at room temperature: keep tablets in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Raltegravir may interact with other medicines, affecting its plasma concentration or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Rifampin (strong CYP3A inducer): markedly reduces raltegravir exposure, compromising efficacy. - Co‑administration with other integrase inhibitors: may increase risk of overlapping toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: can lower raltegravir absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours. - Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole): may modestly decrease drug levels; monitor viral load. - Certain statins (e.g., rosuvastatin): potential for increased statin exposure; observe for muscle symptoms.