Indications 

Prezista is a prescribed medication administered alongside Norvir (ritonavir) and other antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults.  

Classified as a protease inhibitor, Prezista works by decreasing HIV levels in the bloodstream. While it does not cure HIV, it can potentially reduce the risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Prezista and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Should you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Prezista’s dosage may vary per individual based on their medical condition, age, lab test results, and response to the treatment. In children, weight is also considered. 

Typically, Prezista is taken once or twice a day, preferably with a meal or as prescribed by the doctor. It should always be co-administered with Norvir (ritonavir) alongside other HIV-1 medications at a consistent time each day. 

For optimal results, take Prezista exactly as directed. Avoid taking more or less than the prescribed dosage, and refrain from discontinuing this medication or other HIV medicines, even temporarily, unless specifically instructed by your doctor. 

Skipping or altering doses of Prezista without medical approval may lead to increased viral levels, potential treatment challenges (such as drug resistance), or exacerbation of side effects. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Prezista. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your healthcare provider promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain 
• Headache 
• Rash 
• Changes in body fat distribution, particularly in the arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist 

Serious Side Effects 

• Skin rash, regardless of the severity 
• Signs of elevated blood sugar levels: 
  • Increased thirst 
  • Frequent urination 
  • Dry mouth 
  • Fruity breath odor 
• Indications of liver or pancreas issues: 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upper abdominal pain (potentially radiating to the back) 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Rapid heart rate 
  • Dark-colored urine 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

A severe skin reaction may occur while taking Prezista. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience the following severe skin reaction symptoms: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash accompanied by blistering and peeling. 

Prezista can impact the immune system, potentially leading to specific side effects that may occur even weeks or months after initiating treatment. Inform your doctor if you experience the following: 

• Symptoms indicating a new infection: 
  • Fever 
  • Night sweats 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Cold sores 
  • Cough 
  • Wheezing 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Unexplained weight loss 
• Difficulties with speech or swallowing, issues with balance or eye movement, weakness, or a tingling sensation 
• Swelling in the neck or throat (enlarged thyroid), alterations in menstrual patterns, or impotence 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Prezista may occur. Seek prompt medical attention if any of the following indications of severe allergic reactions are noticed:  

• Hives 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 
• Difficulty breathing 

Not all side effects of Prezista are included in this list. Inform your healthcare provider right away if any unlisted effects are observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Prezista, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to darunavir or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information, as Prezista may contain inactive components that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Prezista is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Liver issues (such as hepatitis B or C) 

• Diabetes 
• Hemophilia (a specific bleeding disorder) 
• Lipid problems (high cholesterol or triglycerides/fats) 
• Heart problems (coronary artery disease, heart attack) 

Inform all your healthcare providers about any current, newly initiated, or discontinued medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to reduce the chance of drug interaction with Prezista. 

Some of the products that may interact with Prezista include:  

• Orlistat 
• Certain seizure medications (carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone)  
• Barbiturates (phenobarbital, secobarbital) 
• Specific combination HIV medication (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir) 

The following medications can impact the elimination of darunavir from the body, potentially affecting the effectiveness of Prezista: 

• Apalutamide 
• Garlic supplements 
• Certain rifamycins (rifampin, rifapentine) 
• St. John’s Wort 

Prezista can also affect the elimination rate of other drugs from the body, potentially influencing their efficacy. The following are examples of drugs that may be affected: 

• Certain alpha-blockers (alfuzosin, tamsulosin) 
• Certain benzodiazepines (midazolam, triazolam) 
• Bosutinib 
• Dronedarone 
• Ergot alkaloids (dihydroergotamine, ergotamine) 
• Certain medications for erectile dysfunction (avanafil, sildenafil) or pulmonary hypertension 
• Lomitapide 
• Pimozide 
• Ranolazine 
• Rivaroxaban 
• Salmeterol 
• Specific “statin” cholesterol medications (lovastatin, simvastatin) 
• Tolvaptan  

For individuals concurrently taking didanosine (Videx), taking Prezista either 2 hours prior or 1 hour after taking didanosine is recommended. 

Prezista can potentially reduce the efficacy of hormonal birth control methods like pills, patches, or rings, increasing the risk of pregnancy. Discuss with your doctor about additional or alternative reliable forms of contraception. 

During sexual activity, use an effective barrier method such as latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams to minimize the transmission of HIV to others. If you experience new spotting or breakthrough bleeding, inform your doctor, as these could indicate the inadequate performance of your hormonal birth control. 

Before taking Prezista, inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Treatment can effectively reduce the chances of transmitting HIV infection to your baby. Ensure to discuss the potential risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor. 

The transfer of darunavir into breast milk is uncertain. However, breast milk can transmit HIV; therefore, breastfeeding while taking Prezista is not recommended.