Precautions during use of castegravir sodium tablets

Cabotegravir sodium tablets (cabotegravir), as an HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor, is used in combination with rilpivirine for patients weighing at least 35kg12HIV-1 infection for adults and adolescents 20 years of age and older, and is also suitable for short-term pre-exposure prophylaxis to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 through sexual activity. However, there are a number of things patients need to pay attention to when using this medication to ensure it is safe and effective.

Before starting to take canegravir sodium tablets, patients must fully inform their doctor about all medications they are currently taking or plan to take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. This is because cartegravir sodium tablets may interact with other medications, affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. During the medication period, if you need to start, stop or change any medication, you should also consult your doctor first to ensure the rationality of the medication regimen.

Especially if you are taking antacids containing calcium, magnesium or aluminum, such asMaalox, Mylanta, Tum s, etc., should be taken 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking castegravir sodium tablets to avoid antacids affecting the absorption of the drug.

In addition, patients should also inform their doctors if they have or have had depression, other mental illness, or liver disease, as these conditions may affect the metabolism and response of the drug. Women taking this medication need to pay special attention and inform their doctor whether they are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, you should contact your doctor immediately. At the same time, patients infected with HIV or taking castegravir sodium tablets should avoid breastfeeding to ensure the safety of their babies.

Although cartegravir sodium tablets are effective in treatingHIV-1 infection, they may also cause some side effects. Common side effects include headache, nausea, anxiety, abnormal dreams and difficulty falling asleep. Serious side effects may include depression or mood changes, rash, fever, extreme fatigue, muscle or joint pain, etc. When these symptoms occur, patients should seek medical attention immediately so that the doctor can promptly adjust the medication regimen or take necessary treatment measures.

Reference link: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/212887s008lbl.pdf