Isentress (Raltegravir)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Isentress from Merck is indicated for the treatment of HIV-positive patients who virus has become resistant to the standard retroviral therapy. Isentress acts by inhibiting integrase, an intracellular enzyme which allows the HIV virus DNA to integrate with the normal cell DNA to produce more virus.
Side Effects
Side effects include: diarrhea, nausea, and headache. It may also increase blood levels of creatine kinase, an enzyme found primarily in muscle.
Cautions and Contraindications
It should be used with caution in patients with wasting muscle diseases. Isentress is not indicated for children with HIV-infeactions.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.