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Tivicay Information

Tivicay (Dolutegravir Sodium) is used in combination with other antiretroviral agents to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children weighing at least 14 kg. It is used in combination with rilpivirine as a replacement therapy for the current antiretroviral regimen in patients whose viral load has been suppressed on a stable regimen for at least 6 months, with no history of treatment failure and no known resistance to dolutegravir or rilpivirine. HIV is a virus that gradually weakens the immune system, making the body susceptible to opportunistic infections and, eventually, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Tivicay’s active ingredient is dolutegravir sodium, which belongs to the class of drugs called integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs). To replicate, HIV needs to insert its own DNA into the DNA of healthy host cells. It uses a specific enzyme, called integrase, to do this. Dolutegravir sodium works by binding to this enzyme, effectively blocking its action. By preventing the virus from integrating its genetic material, Tivicay halts the replication cycle of HIV, thereby reducing the amount of virus in the blood, or the "viral load." This action helps the immune system recover and function more effectively to fight off other illnesses. Tivicay does not cure HIV, but helps maintain long-term health and lowers the risk of opportunistic diseases.

Tivicay Side Effects

Some mild side effects of this medicine include abdominal discomfort, abnormal dreams, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, gas, headache, itching, rash, nausea, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, vomiting, and weight gain. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Depression;
• Fever, chill, rigor, cough, body rash, rapid heartbeat, and other symptoms of immune system changes;
• Liver problems with symptoms such as yellowing of skin or eyes, darkened urine, light-coloured stools, nausea, and vomiting;
• Suicidal thoughts and ideation;
• Unusual muscle or joint pain

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Tivicay Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to dolutegravir, the inactive ingredients in Tivicay, or any other medicine. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Active bacteria, fungi, or other vital infections;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease, such as hepatitis

Check with your doctor regularly while taking this medication. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor your response to this medication and detect any potential side effects. This medicine is not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Consult your doctor immediately if you get pregnant while taking this medication. People who could become pregnant should use effective birth control while taking this medication. Women who have HIV infection are cautioned against breastfeeding because this increases the risk of passing HIV to a baby who does not have the infection. Tivicay is not recommended for use in children younger than 6 years or weighing less than 14 kg. Dolutegravir may interact with other medications or substances, such as fampridine, metformin, antacids, rifampicin, and phenytoin. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Tivicay to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take Tivicay tablets orally with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dosage schedule for you. Take this medication regularly as prescribed for effective control of the HIV infection. Do not use a higher dose than prescribed to make up for a missed dose. Refer to the leaflet included in the medication pack for additional usage details. Store these tablets at room temperature, protected from light, and keep them out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Tivicay?

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