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Intelence Information

Intelence (etravirine) is a medication used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. It is specifically for adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who have been previously treated with other HIV medicines. The active ingredient, etravirine, is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). It works by blocking the activity of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that HIV uses to make new copies of itself. By inhibiting this enzyme, Intelence helps to reduce the amount of HIV in the blood and keeps the viral load at a low level, which allows the immune system to recover. Intelence can be effective against certain HIV strains that have developed resistance to other NNRTI drugs.

Intelence Side Effects

The most common side effects of Intelence may include rash, nausea, diarrhea, and peripheral neuropathy (nerve problems that cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet). It can also cause changes in the shape or location of body fat (lipodystrophy). Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Hepatotoxicity: Liver problems with symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, or pain in the upper right abdomen.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Severe skin and allergic reactions, which may include a rash with fever, blisters, and swelling of the face, lips, or throat (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, DRESS).
• Cardiovascular effects: The Canadian product monograph includes a warning for the risk of cardiac events such as myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction (heart attack). Torsade de Pointes is not listed as a side effect.

Intelence Precautions

Do not use Intelence if you are allergic to etravirine or any of its ingredients. Intelence can cause severe skin reactions and liver toxicity. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Intelence can interact with several medications. Do not use Intelence if you are taking any of the following: certain other NNRTIs, specific protease inhibitors, certain anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin), certain rifamycins (e.g., rifampin, rifapentine), or St. John's Wort. These can significantly alter the concentration of Intelence or the co-administered drug, potentially leading to treatment failure or other serious side effects.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Etravirine has been observed to have lower exposures during pregnancy, which may lead to virologic failure. Therefore, Intelence should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. 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. Intelence is a tablet that must be taken twice daily (in the morning and evening) after a meal. It is crucial to take this medication with food to ensure proper absorption. The tablets can be dissolved in a glass of water for patients who cannot swallow pills. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Store Intelence in its original container at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Intelence?

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