Cabotegravir

Cabotegravir is used along with rilpivirine (Edurant) as a short-term treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in certain adults and adolescents 12 years of age or older weighing at least 77 pounds (35 kg). Cabotegravir is used as a short-term prevention of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in certain adults and adolescents 12 years of age or older wighing at least 77 pounds (35 kg). It is used to see if the body can tolerate cabotegravir before receiving the cabotegravir injection and in certain cases of missed doses of cabotegravir injection. Cabotegravir is in a class of medications called HIV integrase inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although cabotegravir does not cure HIV, it may decrease your chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer. Taking these medications along with practicing safer sex and making other life-style changes may decrease the risk of transmitting (spreading) the HIV virus to other people.

🔔 How should this medicine be used?

Cabotegravir comes as a tablet to take by mouth. For treatment of HIV-1 infection, it is usually taken along with rilpivirine once daily with food. Take cabotegravir along with rilpivirine at around the same time every day. Cabotegravir is taken along with rilpivirine for about one month (for at least 28 days) prior to starting treatment with the long-acting injectable forms of these medications or for up to 2 months if the injectable treatment schedule is missed for more than 7 days. For prevention of HIV-1 infection, it is usually taken alone once daily with food. Take cabotegravir at around the same time every day. Cabotegravir is taken for about one month (at least 28 days) prior to starting the long-acting injectable form or for up to 2 months if the injectable schedule is missed for more than 7 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take cabotegravir exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take cabotegravir even if you feel well. Do not stop taking cabotegravir or your other anti-HIV medications without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking cabotegravir or skip doses, your condition may become worse and the virus may become resistant to treatment.

Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.