Intelence (Etravirine)

What is Intelence?

Intelence is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor.

What is Intelence used for?

Intelence is used for the treatment of HIV, which is said to cause immunodeficiency syndrome. It, however, does not cure AIDS or HIV.

How does Intelence work?

Intelence works by averting the cells in the body namely immunodeficiency virus cells, from further growth and multiplication.

How to use Intelence

Follow the instructions given by the doctor and in case of any other dosage related query, refer the information leaflet attached within.

It is advised not to take Intelence on an empty stomach and for best results take it after meals. If you have issues swallowing the whole tablet, then mix it in water, but, this will not dissolve entirely. Drink half a glass of water in the same glass just to ensure that the whole mixture gets consumed.

Intelence warnings and precautions

Intelence is said to cause dizziness and the condition can get worse with the intake of alcohol. So, avoid consumption of any kind of liquor.

Make sure that you talk to your doctor about some effective birth control treatments, as Intelence does not stop the spread of virus through sexual contact.

Avoid skipping doses or changing them without consulting your doctor. Continue with the treatment until your doctor tells you not to take more.

The doctor might recommend some lab tests. Ensure that you do not miss appointments, as these tests are done to keep a check on the risk of side effects.

The safety and efficacy of Intelence has yet not been verified in children below the age of 12. So, be cautious and give it to children only after consulting your doctor.

Pregnant and lactating women should take extra care and talk to their doctors about the risks involved.

What do I do if I have missed a Intelence dose?

If you have missed your Intelence dose you should take it at once. If it’s time for the next one, then skip the missed one and get back to the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Intelence overdose?

If you have taken an Intelence overdose you should seek emergency medical attention.

Intelence interactions

There are some drugs that can interact with other drugs and cause trouble. Some medicines that are likely to interact with Intelence are carbamazepine, delavirdine, Barbiturates, rifampin, rifapentine, St. John’s wort, etc. These drugs are said to alter the efficacy of Intelence.

Other drugs like multivitamin products, garlic, ginseng, gingkom products too, are said to react with Intelence. Some other non prescribed drugs for the cure of irregular heart beat, erectile problems, fungal infections, anxiety and bacterial infections etc. too, are said to affect the effectiveness of Intelence.

Intelence side effects

Intelence like any other drug, too, is likely to cause some minor or major side effects. In case of major side effects, it is highly advised that you instantly seek medical aid.

Some of the  major side effects of Intelence are yellowing of the eyes and skin, allergies, mood or mental changes, numbness or tingling in arms, legs, hands, or feet; change in amount of urine, swelling of the face, severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, peeling skin, seizures; severe or persistent dizziness, etc.

Some very common side effects linked with Intelence are stomach pain, diarrhea, mild rash, tiredness, etc.