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HIV Medication Guide Darunavir | Ritonavir --- 1 www.guidetherapeutique.com R I T O N A V I R ( N o r v i r ® ) 1 0 0 - m g D A R U N A V I R ( P r e z i s t a ® ) 3 0 0 m g Darunavir and ritonavir are antiretrovirals that act by preventing multiplication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Darunavir and ritonavir are viral protease inhibitors. They act by strongly inhibiting the development of new viral particles. Darunavir used in combination with ritonavir and other antiretroviral drugs slow the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of opportunistic infections (AIDS- related infections). Darunavir and ritonavir do not cure AIDS nor kill the virus. There is a permanent risk of transmitting HIV either through sexual or blood contact. It is therefore essential that precautions always be taken (latex condoms, clean syringes, etc.). Fertile women must use an effective means of birth control. Darunavir and ritonavir must be taken with food (less than 30 minutes after meals or snacks), and at the same time each day, ideally every 12 hours. It is important to take your antiretroviral medicine properly - i.e. never forget a dose, follow the instructions on how to take the medicine, and always keep on with your treatment. It is important to take your medications regularly, at the same time each day, and to keep to this schedule as closely as possible. Adherence to therapy will help prevent resistance (HIV’s ability to recognize and defeat the effect of the medication) and avoid treatment failure (loss of efficacy of the antiretroviral treatment), which would result in an increased viral load and a lower number of CD4 cells, which are the ones that help your body fight infection. Nearly everyone tends to relax their compliance with the treatment at some point. The key to success is motivation. Consult members of your care team so that they can explain the benefits of the treatment you are having. They can also suggest ways that will help you maintain it properly. Never modify or stop your treatment without first speaking to your doctor. • Sildenafil (Viagra®), tadalafil (Cialis®), vardenafil (Levitra®): Sildenafil and tadalafil doses must be reduced. As for vardenafil, it cannot be taken with darunavir. • St-John’s Wort: St-John’s Wort can reduce the effectiveness of your HIV medication. Do not take St- John’s Wort with darunavir and ritonavir. • Oral contraceptives (contraceptive pill): Darunavir and ritonavir can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Another method of contraception, like latex condoms, should be used in combination your actual contraceptive. Darunavir and ritonavir can interact with many medications and recreational drugs (Valium®, Demerol®, “Ecstasy”, etc.). This list is subject to change. You should consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new prescription or non- prescription medication. How do these medications work? How do I take this medication? YOUR DOSAGE Darunavir 2 x 300 mg tablets twice daily Ritonavir 1 x 100 mg capsule BID Can I take Darunavir and Ritonavir with my other medications? ©January 2009, R. Therrien HIV Medication Guide Darunavir | Ritonavir --- 2 www.guidetherapeutique.com Avoid excessive or regular consumption of alcohol (beer, wine or hard liquor); alcohol can interact with some of your medications or increase the risk of hepatitis (liver inflammation). However, do not miss a dose of your medication because you want to have an alcoholic drink. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, reasonable (social) consumption should not damage your health. Can I drink alcohol if I’m on Darunavir and Ritonavir? The effect of darunavir and ritonavir in pregnant women is not yet known. Talk to your doctor if you want to take this medication and are pregnant or want to become pregnant. Since the virus can be transmitted through maternal milk, breast-feeding is not recommended in HIV-positive women. Keep darunavir in a dry place at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F). Avoid humidity (bathrooms, etc.). Ritonavir capsules must be stored in the refrigerator (2-8°C or 36-46°F). They can also be stored at room temperature (less than 25°C or 77°C) for a maximum of 30 days. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Storage Always keep your appointments with your doctor and the care team so that your health can be closely monitored. Although the incidence of a cross-sensitivity reaction to this medication has not yet been proven, it is recommended that patients allergic to sulfonamides tell their doctors, as darunavir is one. If you have any questions about your medications or need help to schedule when to take them, please contact your doctor or pharmacist, who is familiar with what you are taking. Contact person :_____________________ Telephone : _____________________________ General advice What are the side ef fects of these medications? If forgotten less than 6 hours after scheduled time: Take the dose you missed as soon as possible and then continue with your regular schedule. If forgotten more than 6 hours after scheduled time: Do not take the missed dose and just take the following dose at the usual time. Do not double up doses. What if I forget to take a dose? What if I’m pregnant or breast-feeding? NORMAL REACTIONS WHICH WILL DISAPPEAR OR CAN BE TREATED CONTINUE THE MEDICATION - Diarrhea or constipation - Nausea, vomiting, stomach pains - Headaches CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR CONTINUE THE MEDICATION Rash alone (redness on the skin) IMMEDIATELY see your doctor. Rash with: - Fever, ulcers in the mouth (lesions) - Swelling, blistering (bubbles on the skin) - Eye redness - Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea - Muscle and joint pain - Severe fatigue, general ill-feeling Hepatitis symptoms (liver inflammation) - Pale or fatty stools, abdominal pains, loss of appetite - Dark urine, jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) - Fatigue/weakness - Severe itchiness Keep your doctor or pharmacist informed of any side effect causing discomfort so they can help you deal with it. If you are a hepatitis B or C carrier you have a greater risk of experiencing liver problems. Medical follow-up Through regular blood tests your doctor will monitor the effects of this medication on your liver, levels of fat (cholesterol, triglycerides) and sugar (glycemia).
