DARUNAVIR
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved darunavir for the treatment of patients with HIV infection on 23 June 2006.
Uses
Darunavir has been developed to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1). Darunavir tablet is indicated as a complete regimen for treating adults and children older than three years of age infected with HIV 1.
How is it administered?
Take the Darunavir tablet as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Darunavir are diarrhea, nausea, rash, headache, stomach pain, vomiting, changes in taste, dizziness, weakness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and tingling sensation. If you experience allergic reactions after taking this tablet, immediately report it to your doctor. Serious side effects while taking Darunavir are liver problems, skin rash and itching, diabetes, and unusual bleeding.
Warnings
Do not take this medication if you have experienced hypersensitivity reactions to Darunavir or its ingredients. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with hemophilia, bone disease (osteonecrosis), diabetes hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or liver condition. Contact your physician immediately if you notice any musculoskeletal problems (joint aches, stiffness, and pains, particularly in the hip, knee, and shoulder, and difficulty in movement.
Precautions
Adults of childbearing potential should consider using an effective contraceptive to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Before starting this treatment, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended due to the potential transmission of HIV from the mother to the baby.
Word of Advice
Darunavir may cause dizziness and fatigue. Avoid driving or operating machinery whilst taking this medication. Store Darunavir and Ritonavir tablets at room temperature, away from children's reach. Keep tablets in their original container and protect from heat.
References
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories (UK) Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Apr 2021] [Accessed on15th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9979.pdf Cipla Ltd., [Revised on 14th May 2020] [Accessed on 15th May 2023], https://www.ciplamed.com/print-product-pdf/35307 Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 15th May 2023], https://www.janssenlabels.com/package-insert/product-monograph/prescribing-information/PREZISTA-pi.pdf KD Tripathi, Antiviral Drugs (Anti-retrovirus), Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 860-872. Sharon Safrin, Antiviral Agents, Lange's Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 863-894.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it mandatory to use effective contraception while treating the Darunavir tablet?
Usage of contraception is to avoid HIV transmission to your partner and unwanted pregnancy; using effective contraception while taking the Darunavir tablet is advised. This medicine might reduce the effectiveness of contraception. Discuss alternative methods of non-hormonal contraception with your physician.
Can Darunavir tablet cure HIV?
No, Darunavir tablet is not a cure for HIV. It is an antiretroviral medication that helps control the replication of the virus and slows down the progression of the disease. It is usually taken lifelong as a combination therapy to manage HIV infection.
Which family does Darunavir tablet belong to?
Yes, the Darunavir tablet is an antiretroviral drug belonging to the protease enzyme family.
What are the common side effects of Darunavir tablet?
Darunavir tablet's most common side effects are diarrhea, headache, fatigue, buffalo hump, breast enlargement and dizziness.
Can Darunavir tablet cause skin problems?
People taking Darunavir tablet may develop a skin rash. Infrequently a rash may become severe or potentially life-threatening. Please get in touch with your doctor whenever you develop a rash.
Does treatment with Darunavir cause diabetes?
Darunavir tablet leads to an increase in blood glucose and the new onset of diabetes. Tell your physician if you notice extreme thirst or urination during this treatment.