Skip Navigation

AIDSInfo logo

 
Home > Drugs > Raltegravir

Raltegravir
ral-TEG-ra-vir   Audio

Brand Name: Isentress
Drug Class: Integrase Inhibitors
Raltegravir, also known as Isentress and MK-0518, is a type of medicine called an integrase inhibitor. Integrase inhibitors work by blocking integrase, a protein that HIV needs to insert its viral genetic material into the genetic material of an infected cell.

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Raltegravir was approved by the FDA on October 12, 2007, for use with other anti-HIV agents in the treatment of HIV infection in adults. It is the first integrase inhibitor approved by the FDA. This medicine does not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS and does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.
In August 2006, Merck opened a worldwide expanded access program for individuals with HIV who have limited or no treatment options. Individuals and health care professionals can call 1-888-577-8839 or visit http://www.earmrk.com for more information.

Dosage Form/Administration
Raltegravir comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth.

Recommended Daily Dose
The recommended dosage of raltegravir for adults is 400 mg twice a day. Doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg have been studied in clinical trials.

Some individuals may benefit from different doses of raltegravir. Individuals should always take raltegravir as prescribed by their doctors.

Contraindications
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects
Along with its desired effects, raltegravir can cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these effects are known, the most common side effects seen in clinical trials have been diarrhea, nausea, headache, and fever.

Drug and Food Interactions
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Raltegravir.

Manufacturer Information
Isentress
  Merck & Company, Inc
  One Merck Dr
  P.O. Box 100
  Whitehouse Station,  NJ  08889-0100
  (800) 609-4618
    

Raltegravir
  Merck & Company, Inc
  One Merck Dr
  P.O. Box 100
  Whitehouse Station,  NJ  08889-0100
  (800) 609-4618
    
Updated November 23, 2008