Raltegravir is used in combination with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Raltegravir is in a class of medications called HIV integrase strand transfer inhibitors. It works by slowing the spread of HIV in the body. Raltegravir does not cure HIV infection and may not prevent you from developing HIV-related illnesses. Raltegravir does not prevent you from spreading HIV to other people.
Raltegravir comes as a tablet to take by mouth.It is usually taken with or without food twice a day. Take raltegravir at the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take raltegravir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take raltegravir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking raltegravir or your other anti-HIV medications without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking raltegravir or skip doses, your condition may become worse and the virus may become resistant to treatment.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two tablets of raltegravir at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
diarrhea
nausea
stomach pain
vomiting
weakness
tiredness
headache
dizziness
pale skin
muscle pain or tenderness
muscle weakness
dark or cola-colored urine
chest pain or pressure
fast heartbeat
shortness of breath
excessive sweating
fever, sore throat, cough, chills, and other signs of infection
lack of energy
loss of appetite
pain in the upper right part of the stomach
yellowing of the skin or eyes
flu-like symptoms
unexplained weight gain
decrease in amount of urine
swelling around the feet, ankles, or legs
drowsiness
You should know that the long-term effects of raltegravir are not known at this time. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication.
Raltegravir may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory while taking raltegravir.Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to raltegravir.
Do not let anyone else take your medication.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 09/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.