Celsentri

Uses of Celsentri

Celsentri is an oral tablet used for the treatment of HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1) infection in adults, in combination with other anti-HIV drugs. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Celsentri is a type of anti-HIV drug called a CCR5 antagonist.
Celsentri can reduce the amount of HIV in the blood (called “viral load”) and increase the number of CD4 (T) cells. This may keep your immune system healthy, so it can help fight infection.
Celsentri is used with other anti-HIV medicines in adults with CCR5-tropic HIV-1 infection.
Celsentri does not cure HIV infection or AIDS. People taking Celsentri may still develop infections or other conditions associated with HIV infection. Although Celsentri is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, Celsentri can help reduce your risks of getting illnesses associated with HIV infection (AIDS and opportunistic infection).

Precautions and Warnings

Before you use Celsentri talk to your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You have liver problems or are infected with Hepatitis B and/or Hepatitis C, as your liver function may need to be closely monitored.
• You have a history of low blood pressure or low blood pressure on standing (postural hypotension) and/or if you are taking any medication to lower blood pressure.
• You have heart disease
• You have a history of any kidney problems.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or become pregnant while taking CELSENTRI. It is not known if CELSENTRI can harm your unborn child. You and your doctor will need to decide if taking CELSENTRI is right for you. If you take CELSENTRI while you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about how you can be included in the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry.
• You are breast-feeding. You should not breast-feed if you are HIV-positive because of the chance of passing HIV to your baby. Also, it is not known if CELSENTRI can pass into your breast milk and if it can harm your baby. Talk with your doctor about the best way to feed your baby.

Dosage

The dose of maraviroc prescribed depends on the other medications in your combination. Formulations can change, and dosages may need to be customized. All medications should always be taken exactly as prescribed and directed. Celsentri can be taken with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole—avoid splitting, chewing or crushing them.

Side Effects

Common side effects: 

• diarrhoea,
• constipation,
• nausea or vomiting,
• stomach pain or discomfort,
• indigestion,
• dizziness,
• abnormal sense of taste,
• problems sleeping or abnormal sleep,
• rash,
• loss of appetite,
• muscle spasms or pain,
• cough,
• joint pain,
• fever,
• colds,
• upper respiratory tract infections
• flu-like symptoms.