Product image of Isentress (Raltegravir) supplied by GNH India

Isentress

Active Ingredient:
Raltegravir
Origin:
EU

Isentress (Raltegravir)

Raltegravir, the active ingredient in Isentress, is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor presented as a tablet for oral use. It belongs to the antiretroviral therapeutic class and is indicated for the treatment of HIV‑1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents, helping to suppress viral replication in adults, adolescents and children.

GNH India supplies Isentress as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, ensuring quality‑assured product availability across regulated markets. The company adheres to stringent manufacturing and distribution standards to meet global health requirements.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V.

1
Pack/s
This product is added to your enquiry list

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below and our team will get back to you shortly with pricing and further information.

A minimum order value applies. Our team will confirm the exact amount or quantity after reviewing your requirements.

Indications & Clinical Uses

Isentress (raltegravir) is used in antiretroviral therapy to target HIV‑1 replication.

  • HIV‑1 infection (adults): Reduces plasma viral load when combined with other antiretroviral agents, supporting immune recovery.
  • HIV‑1 infection (adolescents): Contributes to sustained viral suppression as part of a complete regimen, improving CD4 counts.
  • HIV‑1 infection (children): Enables effective viral control within pediatric combination therapy, aiding growth and development.

How It Works

  • Raltegravir binds to the active site of the HIV‑1 integrase enzyme, preventing the strand transfer step required for integration of viral DNA into the host genome. By blocking this essential step, the drug halts the establishment of proviral DNA, thereby inhibiting subsequent viral replication and reducing the overall viral burden in the patient.

Side Effects

Raltegravir may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe allergic reactions, including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome
  • Liver toxicity manifested by elevated transaminases
  • Rhabdomyolysis or other serious muscle injury

Precautions & Warnings

Before initiating therapy, several safety considerations should be observed.

  • Assess liver function: monitor transaminases before initiating therapy and periodically during treatment.
  • Evaluate renal function: adjust use in patients with severe renal impairment as recommended.
  • Review concomitant medications: avoid strong CYP3A inducers that may lower raltegravir exposure.
  • Pregnancy considerations: category B; discuss potential risks and benefits with healthcare provider.
  • Adherence importance: maintain consistent dosing to prevent development of resistance.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, and protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Raltegravir can interact with several medicines, requiring attention to avoid reduced efficacy or increased toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): markedly reduce raltegravir plasma concentrations, compromising efficacy.
  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may decrease absorption if taken simultaneously; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir): may increase raltegravir levels, requiring monitoring for toxicity.
  • HIV non‑nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., efavirenz): may modestly affect raltegravir exposure.
  • Statins (e.g., simvastatin): potential for increased muscle toxicity; monitor creatine kinase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Isentress contains raltegravir and is prescribed as part of combination antiretroviral therapy to treat HIV‑1 infection. It helps lower the amount of virus in the blood, supporting immune system recovery when used together with other approved HIV medicines.

Raltegravir blocks the HIV‑1 integrase enzyme, which is essential for inserting viral DNA into the host cell’s genome. By preventing this integration step, the drug stops the virus from establishing a permanent infection in cells, thereby reducing viral replication and disease progression.

The specific dose of Isentress is determined by the prescribing healthcare professional based on the patient’s age, weight, renal function, and the overall antiretroviral regimen. Patients should follow the prescriber’s instructions and not adjust the dose on their own.

Isentress is classified as pregnancy category B, indicating that animal studies have not shown risk but there are limited human data. It may be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh potential risks, and breastfeeding decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

To order Isentress, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Isentress (raltegravir) is an earlier‑generation integrase strand transfer inhibitor, offering a well‑established safety profile and twice‑daily dosing. Newer agents such as dolutegravir provide once‑daily dosing and a higher barrier to resistance, but selection depends on individual patient factors, resistance patterns and clinician preference.

Isentress tablets should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in their original blister pack to protect from moisture and light. Keep the medication out of reach of children and avoid storing in bathrooms or other humid environments.

Isentress is taken orally as a tablet, usually with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed. Dosing times are typically spaced evenly throughout the day as directed by the prescriber.

Patients should be alert for signs of severe allergic reactions such as rash, blistering or mucosal involvement, which may indicate Stevens‑Johnson syndrome. Other serious concerns include liver toxicity (elevated liver enzymes) and muscle injury like rhabdomyolysis, which may present as unexplained muscle pain or weakness.

Isentress should be avoided in individuals with known hypersensitivity to raltegravir or any tablet excipients. It is also contraindicated when used with strong CYP3A inducers that markedly reduce drug exposure, and caution is advised in patients with severe hepatic impairment or those taking interacting medications.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

Disclaimer

At GNH India, we aim to provide information that is expert-reviewed, accurate, and reliable. However, all content on this platform is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While efforts are made to maintain accuracy and currency, the information may contain errors, omissions, or may not reflect the latest developments. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.

All product names, brand names, trademarks and registered trademarks displayed on this website are the property of their respective owners. This website and its operator are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by any such trade mark owners unless expressly stated. Any reference to product names or trademarks is made solely for descriptive and informational purposes. No commercial relationship, sponsorship, approval, or association with any trademark owner should be inferred. Information provided herein does not constitute promotion, advertising, or an offer for sale of any medicinal product and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

All trademarks and brand names displayed on this website are used strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, specifically Sections 30 and 30(1) governing fair use. Trademark ownership has been accurately attributed under the "Manufacturer/ TM Owner" section in compliance with statutory requirements.

Ordering Process

Simple, Secure, and Seamless

Learn how our streamlined ordering process guarantees fast, compliant, and reliable access to essential medicines worldwide.

Quote request form

01

Submit Quote Request Form

Tell us what medications you need by filling out our simple form and uploading a valid document.

Price estimate review

02

We Review & Send Estimate

Our licensed pharmacists will verify your details and provide you with a detailed cost estimate.

Secure payment

03

Confirm & Make Payment

Discuss any queries, approve the estimate, and complete your payment.

Worldwide delivery

04

Get Delivered

Your medicines, safely packed and delivered to your door or nearest airport — hassle-free.

Quality You Can Trust

Our internationally recognized certifications underscore our commitment to safety, quality, and excellence.