NUACE TABLET

🧬🛡️💊 Darunavir 800mg + Ritonavir 100mg Tablet: Potent HIV Protease Inhibitor Combo

Darunavir 800mg + Ritonavir 100mg is a fixed-dose combination antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infection. This combination belongs to a class of drugs known as protease inhibitors and is typically prescribed as part of a Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) regimen.

Darunavir is the primary active agent that inhibits the HIV protease enzyme, crucial for viral replication, while Ritonavir acts as a pharmacokinetic booster, enhancing Darunavir’s efficacy by increasing its blood concentration.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

• Darunavir inhibits the HIV-1 protease enzyme, preventing the cleavage of viral polyproteins. This results in the production of immature, non-infectious viral particles, thus halting the replication cycle.

• Ritonavir, though a protease inhibitor itself, is used in this combination at a low dose to inhibit the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which metabolizes Darunavir. This allows higher and sustained levels of Darunavir in the bloodstream, enhancing its therapeutic effects.

Together, the combination suppresses viral load, improves immune function, and reduces the risk of HIV-related complications.

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📌 Indications and Uses

This combination is used for:

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents (≥12 years and ≥40 kg)

• As part of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) with other agents such as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)

It is not a cure for HIV/AIDS, but it helps manage the infection and improve the quality of life.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Standard adult dose: Darunavir 800mg + Ritonavir 100mg once daily with food

• Must be taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects

• Used in treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced patients with no known resistance to Darunavir

Strict adherence to the prescribed schedule is essential to prevent resistance and treatment failure.

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to Darunavir, Ritonavir, or sulfonamides

• Caution in patients with:

  • Liver disease, including hepatitis B or C

  • Diabetes mellitus (may cause insulin resistance)

  • Cardiac conditions (may prolong PR interval)

• Not recommended in severe hepatic impairment

• Must be taken with other antiretrovirals; never use as monotherapy

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🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

• Skin rash

Serious (rare):

• Liver toxicity (monitor liver enzymes)

• Allergic reactions, including severe rash or Stevens-Johnson syndrome

• Increased blood sugar and lipid levels

• Fat redistribution (lipodystrophy)

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Interacts with many medications due to Ritonavir’s effect on CYP3A4

• Avoid with:

  • Rifampin

  • St. John’s Wort

  • Certain antiarrhythmics, benzodiazepines, and ergot derivatives

• Adjust doses of co-administered drugs under medical supervision

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C

• Keep in original container, tightly closed

• Protect from moisture and keep out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Darunavir 800mg + Ritonavir 100mg tablet is a critical component in modern HIV therapy, offering strong viral suppression with convenient once-daily dosing. With careful monitoring and adherence, this combination can help patients maintain undetectable viral loads, enhance immune recovery, and lead healthier, longer lives.

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Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.