0

Home > Drug Category > AIDS Medications, HIV Treatments > Complera and Equivalent

Complera Information

Complera is a complete regimen for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 35 kg. It is used as initial therapy in those with no history of antiretroviral treatment who have an HIV-1 viral load of less than 100,000 copies/mL. It is a single-tablet regimen containing three active ingredients: emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Emtricitabine and tenofovir are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), and rilpivirine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). Together, they work to block the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which HIV needs to replicate. By suppressing viral replication, Complera helps to reduce the viral load and improve the function of the immune system.

Complera Side Effects

The most common side effects of Complera may include depression, insomnia, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Kidney problems: New or worsening renal impairment, including acute renal failure.
• Lactic acidosis/severe hepatomegaly: A buildup of lactic acid in the blood and an enlarged liver with fat deposits, which can be fatal.
• Liver problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, light-colored stools, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Mental health changes: Severe depression, mood changes, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
• Post-treatment exacerbation of Hepatitis B: Severe, acute flare-ups of Hepatitis B in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV after stopping Complera.
• Severe skin reactions: Rash, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
• Weakening of bones: Decreased bone mineral density, leading to an increased risk of fractures.

Complera Precautions

Do not use Complera if you are allergic to emtricitabine, rilpivirine, tenofovir, or any of its ingredients. Complera should not be initiated in patients with an HIV-1 viral load greater than 100,000 copies/mL. The use of Complera is contraindicated with certain medications due to the risk of significant drug interactions that can lead to virologic failure and potential resistance. This medication has two boxed warnings: one for the risk of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, and another for post-treatment acute exacerbation of Hepatitis B in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

Complera can interact with several medications. Do not use Complera if you are taking any of the following: proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole), certain anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin), certain rifamycins (e.g., rifampin), or St. John's Wort. These can significantly decrease the concentration of rilpivirine, potentially leading to treatment failure. Use with caution with other antacids or H2-receptor antagonists.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Complera should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as lower exposures of rilpivirine have been observed during pregnancy, which may lead to virologic failure. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. HIV-infected mothers should not breastfeed their infants to avoid the risk of transmitting HIV. Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Complera is typically taken once daily with a meal. It is crucial to take Complera with food to ensure proper absorption of the medication. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time. Store Complera in its original container at room temperature, protected from moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Complera?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Complera.