PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat)
PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat)
What is this medication?
PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat)
Protease Inhibitor
PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat) is indicated for treatment of HIV-1 Infection.
ALERT: WARNING
The National Institutes of Health’s COVID-19 guidelines recommend against the use of HIV protease inhibitors, such as darunavir and cobicistat for the treatment of COVID-19.
How does this medication work?
PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat) is a two-drug combination of darunavir and cobicistat. Darunavir binds to HIV-1 protease and inhibits cleavage of viral Gag-Pol polyprotein precursors into individual functional proteins required for infectious HIV. This results in the formation of immature, non-infectious viral particles. Cobicistat is a cytochrome P450 3A inhibitor which will increase the systemic concentration of darunavir.
How should I take this medication?
Oral: Take one tablet (darunavir 800mg/cobicistat 150mg) once daily on combination with other antiretrovirals.
Note: Genotype testing is advised prior to therapy initiation in antiretroviral treatment-experienced patients; if testing is not feasible, use is recommended in protease-inhibitor naïve patients only.
Do not use darunavir/cobicistat in combination with abacavir and lamivudine in patients with a pre-antiretroviral therapy HIV RNA ≥100,000 copies/mL.
How to Take: Take with food.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Before starting PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat) make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, and activities you perform. PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat) may cause redistribution of fat, liver injury and renal toxicity, immune reconstitution syndrome, hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, anaphylaxis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare) and toxic epidermal necrolysis. PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat) should be used with caution in patients with diabetes, hemophilia A or B and hepatic impairment.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
How should I store this medication?
Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.
What are the possible side effects of using this medication?
Immune reconstitution syndrome
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for PREZCOBIX (Darunavir/Cobicistat), only the most common.