darunavir, TMC-114; Prezista

Type of Drug: Protease Inhibitor

Once HIV has infected a cell and made copies of itself, it uses an enzyme called protease to process itself correctly so it can be released from the cell to infect other cells. Protease inhibitors work by blocking that enzyme.

Approved adult dosing

For those who have taken antiretroviral drugs before: one 600 mg tablet Prezista + one 100 mg capsule Norvir, two times a day

• Morning

Prezista 600 mg

+

Norvir

• Evening

Prezista 600 mg

+

Norvir

For those who have NEVER taken antiretroviral drugs: two 400 mg tablets Prezista + one 100 mg capsule Norvir, once a day

Prezista 400 mg

+

Norvir

Note: Prezista has been available as a 300 mg tablet (dose is two 300 mg tablets + one 100 mg capsule Norvir, two times a day), but this is being phased out.

Notes on taking this medication

• Must take Prezista with Norvir; it is approved only with the use of Norvir
• Must take with food
• Prezista interacts with many other drugs; persons using Prezista with those drugs may need an adjustment to their dose of Prezista or the other drugs; consult your medical provider

Side effects

• Nausea; diarrhea; stomach discomfort
• Rash
• Liver inflammation and increased liver enzyme levels
• Elevations in cholesterol and triglycerides
• Elevated blood sugar
• Abnormal accumulation of body fat
• Persons who are allergic to sulfa drugs may be allergic to Prezista