Raltegravir – Key Facts, Uses, and Safety

When talking about Raltegravir, a once‑daily integrase inhibitor approved for HIV‑1 infection. Also known as Isentress, it blocks the viral enzyme integrase, stopping HIV DNA from inserting into human cells. Raltegravir is a cornerstone of modern antiretroviral therapy, especially for patients needing a switch from older regimens.

Understanding the virus itself helps clarify why Raltegravir matters. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a retrovirus that attacks CD4+ T cells and can lead to AIDS if untreated. Managing HIV requires lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART), and successful suppression hinges on drugs that target different stages of the viral life cycle. Raltegravir directly tackles the integration step, offering a clean mechanism with a low pill burden.

How Integrase Inhibitors Fit Into HIV Care

Another piece of the puzzle is the drug class itself. Integrase inhibitors, antiretroviral agents that prevent the HIV integrase enzyme from inserting viral DNA into the host genome. Besides Raltegravir, the class includes dolutegravir and elvitegravir, each with slight differences in dosing frequency and resistance profiles. The class is prized for rapid viral load reduction and a favorable side‑effect slate, which is why many clinicians start patients on an integrase‑based regimen.

Resistance is the silent threat that can undermine any ART plan. Drug resistance, mutations in HIV that reduce the effectiveness of specific antiretrovirals. For Raltegravir, common resistance mutations include N155H, Q148H/K/R, and Y143C/R/H. Monitoring viral load every 3‑4 months helps catch resistance early, allowing a swift switch to another integrase inhibitor or a different drug class. Consistent adherence—taking the pill at the same time each day—keeps the virus from finding a foothold.

Practical considerations round out the picture. Raltegravir comes in 400 mg tablets, typically taken twice daily, though a newer 1200 mg once‑daily formulation exists for select patients. Food doesn’t affect absorption, but severe renal impairment requires dose adjustment. Common side effects are mild: headache, nausea, and fatigue. Rare but serious events include severe skin reactions and liver enzyme elevations, so routine labs are advisable. When patients need a generic version, the active ingredient remains identical, offering a cost‑effective option without compromising efficacy.

Armed with this overview, you can see how Raltegravir connects to HIV, integrase inhibition, and resistance management. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into related topics—comparisons with other antivirals, tips for safe online purchases of generic meds, and real‑world experiences with side‑effects. Keep reading to expand your understanding and make informed choices about your treatment plan.