Healthwise

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Cabotegravir Injection (CABOTEGRAVIR EXTENDED-RELEASE - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • HIV
  • prevent infection

Brand Name(s): Apretude

Generic Name: Cabotegravir

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection into a muscle.

Before starting this medicine, you must first be tested to make sure you are HIV negative.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Do not share needles or other personal objects such as shavers or toothbrushes.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of HIV, such as a sore throat that doesn't go away, tiredness, fever, night sweats, rash, diarrhea, joint or muscle aches, or swollen glands. If you become HIV positive you will need to take other medicines.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • bruising, bumps, or hardened skin at the injection site
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • depression or feeling sad
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • suicidal thoughts

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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