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Maraviroc (By mouth)

Introduction:

Maraviroc

Treats human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Maraviroc does not cure HIV or AIDS, but combinations of drugs that treat HIV infection may slow the disease process and may prolong your life. This medicine is usually given to patients who have received HIV treatments in the past.

Brand Name(s):

Selzentry

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to maraviroc.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Ask your pharmacist for the Medication Guide if you do not have one. Your doctor might ask you to sign some forms to show that you understand this information.
  • Maraviroc is used with other medicines to treat HIV infection. Make sure you take all of your medicines as your doctor has prescribed. Do not stop taking this medicine, even for a short time, unless your doctor tells you to.
  • When your supply of this medicine is running low, contact your doctor or pharmacist ahead of time. Do not allow yourself to run out of this medicine.
  • You may take this medicine with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
  • Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you feel better after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using St. John's wort, ketoconazole (Nizoral®), rifampin (Rifadin®), or other medicines to treat HIV or AIDS (such as atazanavir, delavirdine, efavirenz, lopinavir, nevirapine, ritonavir, saquinavir, tipranavir, Aptivus®, Fortovase®, Invirase®, Kaletra®, Norvir®, Rescriptor®, Reyataz®, Sustiva®, or Viramune®). Tell your doctor if you are also using medicine to lower blood pressure (such as atenolol, hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ], lisinopril, metoprolol, quinapril, Accupril®, Cozaar®, Diovan®, Lotrel®, Norvasc®, Toprol®, or Zestril®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant, or if you have heart disease, liver disease (including hepatitis B or C), kidney disease, or low blood pressure.
  • You should not breast feed if you have HIV or AIDS, because you may give the infection to your baby through your breast milk.
  • When you start taking HIV medicines, your immune system may get stronger. If you have infections that are hidden in your body, such as pneumonia, herpes virus, or tuberculosis, you may notice new symptoms when your body tries to fight them. If this occurs, be sure to tell your doctor.
  • This medicine will not keep you from giving HIV to your partner during sex. Make sure you understand and practice safe sex, even if your partner also has HIV. Do not share needles with anyone.
  • This medicine may increase your chances of having cancer. Talk to your doctor about this risk if this concerns you.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert. You may also feel lightheaded when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position, so stand up slowly.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, or painful urination.
  • Chest pain.
  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
  • Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
  • Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body.
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
  • Painful cold sores or blisters on lips, nose, eyes, or genitals.
  • Shortness of breath or rapid breathing.
  • Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Unusual rash or lumps on the skin.
  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Changes in appetite.
  • Constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain or upset.
  • Depression, confusion, or trouble sleeping.
  • Joint or muscle pain.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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