HIV treatments information
darunavir
Darunavir is a PIA type of anti-HIV drug that works by preventing the production of an enzyme, protease, that HIV needs to replicate. which was specifically developed to control HIV that is already resistantHIV which has mutated and is less susceptible to the effects of one or more anti-HIV drugs is said to be resistant. to some other protease inhibitors, so was first used for more treatment-experience people. It is now also one of the preferred PIs used in first-line regimens.
It is always prescribed to be taken with a low-dose of ritonavir.
About this treatment
| Generic name: | darunavir (DRV) |
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| Pronunciation: | da-ROO-nuh-veer |
| Brand name: | Prezista |
| Also known as: | TMC114 |
| Drug class: | protease inhibitor |
| Availability in Australia: |
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| Presentation: | 300mg tablet; 400mg tablet; 600mg tablet |
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Taking it
Like all anti-HIV drugs, darunavir must be taken in combination with other drugs to be completely effective. Commonly, darunavir is combined with two nucleoside (NRTI) drugs, although other combinations are sometimes used. Your doctor will advise you on the right combination of drugs to suit your circumstances.
Dosage
For treatment experienced people the normal dose is two 300mg tablets plus 100mg of ritonavir twice a day.
For people starting treatment for the first time the normal dose is two 400mg tablets plus 100mg of ritonavir twice a day.
Regardless of what you read on this website or elsewhere, you should always take your medications according to your doctor's instructions. If you're unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
With or without food?
Darunavir should be taken with food.
Side effects
All drugs can produce side effects in some people. These may be mild, moderate or severe, so you should be aware of potential side effects before starting any drug, and speak to your doctor if you experience side effects that concern you.
- Common side effects may include nausea (upset stomach, feeling sick to the stomach), diarrhoea, headache, common cold.
- Less common side effects may include skin rash, increases in cholesterol and triglycerides (blood fats).
- Rare side effects may include hepatitis.
It's unlikely you will experience all of these side effects, and you may not experience any side effects at all. Before starting any new drug, ask your doctor about side effects you might experience and discuss strategies for dealing with side effects if they do occur. If you experience any significant side effect you should continue taking your medicine and see your doctor as soon as possible.
Interactions with other drugs
Because of decreased serum levels, darunavir should not be given with either lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra) or saquinavir (Invirase). Darunavir with ritonavir can interact with other drugs or supplements that you are taking. These interactions can change the amount of each drug in your bloodstream and cause an under- or overdose. New interactions are being identified all the time. Drugs to watch out for include drugs to treat tuberculosis, for erectile dysfunction (such as Viagra), antidepressants, drugs for heart rhythm (antiarrhythmics), and for migraine headaches. Interactions are also possible with several antihistamines (allergy medications), sedatives, drugs to lower cholesterol, and anti-fungal drugs. Some birth control pills may not work if you are taking darunavir. Darunavir lowers blood levels of methadone. Watch for signs of excessive sedation if you take darunavir with buprenorphine. The herb St. John's Wort lowers the blood levels of some protease inhibitors. Do not take it while taking darunavir.| Attachment | Size |
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| jccprezi10309.pdf | 39.42 KB |