Learn more about the adverse reactions of castegravir sodium tablets

Cabotegravir sodium tablets (cabotegravir), as an HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), when used in combination with rilpivirine, It provides a new option for short-term treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 35kg. At the same time, it is also suitable for short-term pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 through sexual intercourse. The drug works by reducing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although it does not cure HIV, it can effectively reduce the risk of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related diseases.

However, like many other drugs, cartegravir sodium tablets may cause some adverse reactions during use. Common adverse reactions include headache, nausea, anxiety and abnormal dreams, which may have a certain impact on patients' daily life. In addition, some patients may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

In addition to these common adverse reactions, castegravir sodium tablets may also cause some more serious symptoms. For example, depression or mood changes, including suicidal ideation or intent, are of particular concern. Once these symptoms occur, patients should seek medical attention immediately and seek professional help. Other serious side effects include rash, fever, extreme fatigue, muscle or joint pain, blisters, mouth sores, and more. More seriously, some patients may experience symptoms such as swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue or mouth, difficulty breathing, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and pain in the right upper quadrant, all of which are indications for emergency medical treatment.

When dealing with these adverse reactions, patients should communicate with their doctors in a timely manner and follow the doctor's recommendations for adjustments or treatments. At the same time, patients should 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, before starting to take cartegravir sodium tablets. Especially if you are taking antacids containing calcium, magnesium or aluminum, you should take them 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking castegravir sodium tablets to avoid drug interactions.

In addition, patients should specifically inform their doctor if they have or have had depression, other mental illness, or liver disease. Women taking the drug should also tell their doctor if they are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Because canegravir sodium tablets may have effects on the fetus or infant, relevant patients should use them with caution. In short, when using cartegravir sodium tablets, patients should pay close attention to their body's reaction, seek medical treatment promptly and follow the doctor's advice to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication.

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