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ISENTRESS

Raltegravir · Tablet, Chewable

Prescription NDA RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
ISENTRESS
Generic name
Raltegravir
Dosage form
Tablet, Chewable
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
2
NDC product codes
2
Packages
2
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Raltegravir Potassium 100 mg/1 744842 View
Raltegravir Potassium 25 mg/1 744842 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Tablet, Chewable
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
4

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
HIV Integrase Inhibitors [MoA] MoA 3 members — no class page
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor [EPC] EPC 3 members — no class page

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
203045
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
December 21, 2011
Sponsor
MSD SUB MERCK
Products on application
2
Submissions recorded
18
Products approved under application 203045.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
203045-001 ISENTRESS TABLET, CHEWABLE RALTEGRAVIR POTASSIUM Prescription — RLD
203045-002 ISENTRESS TABLET, CHEWABLE RALTEGRAVIR POTASSIUM Prescription — RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
—
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
7754731 March 11, 2029 001 Yes U-257 January 20, 2012
7754731 March 11, 2029 002 Yes U-257 —
7754731*PED September 11, 2029 001 No —
7754731*PED September 11, 2029 002 No —
8771733 June 2, 2030 002 Yes U-257 March 27, 2023

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 203045.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 17 Labeling Approved May 18, 2021 Standard
Supplement 16 Efficacy Approved July 14, 2020 Standard
Supplement 15 Labeling Approved March 5, 2018 Standard
Supplement 14 Efficacy Approved November 22, 2017 Priority
Supplement 13 Efficacy Approved May 26, 2017 Standard
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved February 20, 2015 Standard
Supplement 11 Labeling Approved February 18, 2015 Standard
Supplement 10 Labeling Approved April 8, 2014 Standard
Supplement 9 Efficacy Approved December 20, 2013 Priority
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved October 24, 2013 Standard
Supplement 7 Labeling Approved August 5, 2013 Standard
Supplement 4 Efficacy Approved June 28, 2013 Standard
Supplement 6 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 28, 2013 Priority
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved April 4, 2013 Standard
Supplement 3 Labeling Approved August 10, 2012 901 Required
Supplement 2 Efficacy Approved April 18, 2012 Standard
Supplement 1 Efficacy Approved March 28, 2012 Standard
Original application 1 Type 3 - New Dosage Form Approved December 21, 2011 Priority

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · May 20, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · May 19, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · July 22, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · July 17, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · March 12, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · March 6, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · December 6, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 24, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · May 31, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · May 31, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · February 24, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · February 23, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · February 20, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · February 19, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · April 10, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · April 10, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · December 31, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 25, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 25, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · August 6, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · August 6, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · July 3, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · July 2, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · April 9, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · April 9, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · August 15, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · August 15, 2012
  • 0 · Original application · April 30, 2012
  • 0 · Original application · April 30, 2012

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20241018). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20241018

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Adult Patients: ISENTRESS and ISENTRESS HD are human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitors (HIV-1 INSTI) indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adult patients ( 1 ). Pediatric Patients: ISENTRESS is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in pediatric patients weighing at least 2 kg ( 1 ). ISENTRESS HD is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in pediatric patients weighing at least 40 kg ( 1 ). Adult Patients: ISENTRESS ® and ISENTRESS ® HD are indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection in adult patients. Pediatric Patients: ISENTRESS is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in pediatric patients weighing at least 2 kg. ISENTRESS HD is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in pediatric patients weighing at least 40 kg.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ISENTRESS and ISENTRESS HD can be administered with or without food ( 2.1 ). Do not substitute ISENTRESS chewable tablets or ISENTRESS for oral suspension for the ISENTRESS 400 mg or 600 mg film-coated tablet. See specific dosing guidance for chewable tablets and the formulation for oral suspension ( 2.1 ). Adults Treatment-naïve patients or patients who are virologically suppressed on an initial regimen of ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily: 1200 mg (2 × 600 mg) film-coated tablet orally, once daily or 400 mg film-coated tablet orally, twice daily ( 2.2 ). Treatment-experienced patients: 400 mg film-coated tablet orally, twice daily ( 2.2 ). During coadministration with rifampin in adults, 800 mg (2 × 400 mg) twice daily ( 2.2 ). Pediatrics If weighing at least 40 kg, and either treatment-naïve patients or patients who are virologically suppressed on an initial regimen of ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily: 1200 mg (2 × 600 mg) film-coated tablet orally, once daily or 400 mg film-coated tablet orally, twice daily or 300 mg (3 × 100 mg) chewable tablets, twice daily ( 2.3 ). If weighing at least 25 kg: One 400 mg film-coated tablet orally, twice daily. If unable to swallow a tablet, consider the chewable tablet, as specified in Table 2 ( 2.3 ). If weighing at least 3 kg to less than 25 kg: Weight-based dosing using the chewable tablet or oral suspension, as specified in Table 4 ( 2.3 ). For neonates (birth to 4 weeks [28 days] of age): Weight-based dosing of the oral suspension as specified in Table 5 ( 2.3 ). 2.1 General Dosing Recommendations Because the formulations have different pharmacokinetic profiles, do not substitute ISENTRESS chewable tablets or ISENTRESS for oral suspension for the ISENTRESS 400 mg film-coated tablet or the ISENTRESS HD 600 mg film-coated tablet. See specific dosing guidance for chewable tablets and the formulation for oral suspension. Because the extent to which ISENTRESS may be dialyzable is unknown, dosing before a dialysis session should be avoided [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . ISENTRESS film-coated tablets must be swallowed whole. ISENTRESS chewable tablets may be chewed or swallowed whole. Maximum daily dose is 300 mg taken by mouth twice daily. For children who have difficulty chewing the 25 mg chewable tablet, the tablet may be crushed. Preparation of the crushed 25 mg chewable tablet: Place the tablet(s) in a small, clean cup. For each tablet, add a teaspoonful (~5 mL) of liquid (for example, water, juice, or breast milk). Within 2 minutes, the tablet(s) will absorb the liquid and fall apart. Using a spoon, crush any remaining pieces of the tablet(s). Immediately administer the entire dose orally. If any portion of the dose is left in the cup, add another teaspoonful (~5 mL) of liquid, swirl and administer immediately. ISENTRESS for oral suspension: See Instructions for Use for details on preparation and administration of ISENTRESS for oral suspension. Using the provided mixing cup, combine 10 mL of water and the entire contents of one packet of ISENTRESS for oral suspension and mix. Each single-use packet for oral suspension contains 100 mg of raltegravir which is suspended in 10 mL of water giving a final concentration of 10 mg per mL. Maximum daily dose is 100 mg taken by mouth twice daily. Gently swirl the mixing cup for 45 seconds in a circular motion to mix the powder into a uniform suspension. Do not shake. Once mixed, measure the prescribed dose volume of suspension with a syringe and administer the dose orally. The dose should be administered orally within 30 minutes of mixing. Discard any remaining suspension into the trash. 2.2 Adults The recommended adult dosage of ISENTRESS film-coated tablets is displayed in Table 1. ISENTRESS and ISENTRESS HD should be taken by mouth and may be taken with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Table 1: Dosing Recommendations for ISENTRESS and ISENTRESS HD in Adult Patients Population Recommended Dose Tr …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Film-coated Tablets 400 mg pink, oval-shaped, film-coated tablets with "227" on one side (ISENTRESS). 600 mg yellow, oval-shaped, film-coated tablets with corporate logo and "242" on one side and plain on the other side (ISENTRESS HD). Chewable Tablets 100 mg pale orange, oval-shaped, orange-banana flavored, chewable tablets scored on both sides and imprinted on one face with the corporate logo and "477" on opposite sides of the score. 25 mg pale yellow, round, orange-banana flavored, chewable tablets with the corporate logo on one side and "473" on the other side. For Oral Suspension 100 mg white to off-white, banana flavored, granular powder that may contain yellow or beige to tan particles in a child resistant single-use foil packet. Film-Coated Tablets: 400 mg ( 3 ). Film-Coated Tablets: 600 mg ( 3 ). Chewable Tablets: 100 mg scored and 25 mg ( 3 ). For Oral Suspension: Single-use packet of 100 mg ( 3 ).

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None None ( 4) .

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Severe, potentially life-threatening and fatal skin reactions have been reported. This includes cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hypersensitivity reaction and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Immediately discontinue treatment with ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD and other suspect agents if severe hypersensitivity, severe rash, or rash with systemic symptoms or liver aminotransferase elevations develops and monitor clinical status, including liver aminotransferases closely ( 5.1 ). Monitor for Immune Reconstitution Syndrome ( 5.2 ). Inform patients with phenylketonuria that the 100 mg and 25 mg chewable tablets contain phenylalanine ( 5.3 ). 5.1 Severe Skin and Hypersensitivity Reactions Severe, potentially life-threatening, and fatal skin reactions have been reported. These include cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Hypersensitivity reactions have also been reported and were characterized by rash, constitutional findings, and sometimes, organ dysfunction, including hepatic failure. Discontinue ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD and other suspect agents immediately if signs or symptoms of severe skin reactions or hypersensitivity reactions develop (including, but not limited to, severe rash or rash accompanied by fever, general malaise, fatigue, muscle or joint aches, blisters, oral lesions, conjunctivitis, facial edema, hepatitis, eosinophilia, angioedema). Clinical status including liver aminotransferases should be monitored and appropriate therapy initiated. Delay in stopping ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD treatment or other suspect agents after the onset of severe rash may result in a life-threatening reaction. 5.2 Immune Reconstitution Syndrome Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy, including ISENTRESS. During the initial phase of combination antiretroviral treatment, patients whose immune systems respond may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (such as Mycobacterium avium infection, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis), which may necessitate further evaluation and treatment. Autoimmune disorders (such as Graves' disease, polymyositis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome) have also been reported to occur in the setting of immune reconstitution; however, the time to onset is more variable, and can occur many months after initiation of treatment. 5.3 Phenylketonurics ISENTRESS Chewable Tablets contain phenylalanine, a component of aspartame. Each 25 mg ISENTRESS Chewable Tablet contains approximately 0.05 mg phenylalanine. Each 100 mg ISENTRESS Chewable Tablet contains approximately 0.10 mg phenylalanine. Phenylalanine can be harmful to patients with phenylketonuria.

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The most common adverse reactions of moderate to severe intensity (≥2%) are insomnia, headache, dizziness, nausea and fatigue ( 6.1 ). Creatine kinase elevations were observed in subjects who received ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD. Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis have been reported. Use with caution in patients at increased risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, such as patients receiving concomitant medications known to cause these conditions and patients with a history of rhabdomyolysis, myopathy or increased serum creatine kinase ( 6.2 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Treatment-Naïve Adults The safety of ISENTRESS was evaluated in HIV-infected treatment-naïve subjects in 2 Phase III studies: STARTMRK evaluated ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily versus efavirenz, both in combination with emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), and ONCEMRK evaluated ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg (2 × 600 mg) once daily versus ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily, both in combination with emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Safety data from these two studies are presented side-by-side in Tables 6 and 7 to simplify presentation; direct comparisons across trials should not be made due to differing duration of follow-up and study design. STARTMRK (ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily) In STARTMRK, subjects received ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily (N=281) or efavirenz (EFV) 600 mg at bedtime (N=282) both in combination with emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, (N=282). During double-blind treatment, the total follow-up for subjects receiving ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily + emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate was 1104 patient-years and 1036 patient-years for subjects receiving efavirenz 600 mg at bedtime + emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. In STARTMRK, the rate of discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events through Week 240 was 5% in subjects receiving ISENTRESS + emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and 10% in subjects receiving efavirenz + emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. ONCEMRK (ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg [2 × 600 mg] once daily) In ONCEMRK, subjects received ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg once daily (n=531) or ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily (n=266) both in combination with emtricitabine (+) tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. During double-blind treatment, the total follow-up for subjects with ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg once daily was 913 patient-years and for ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily was 450 patient-years. In ONCEMRK, the rate of discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events through Week 96 was 1% in subjects receiving ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg (2 × 600 mg) once daily and 2% in subjects receiving ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily. Clinical adverse reactions of moderate to severe intensity occurring in ≥2% of treatment-naïve subjects treated with ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily or efavirenz in STARTMRK through Week 240 or ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg once daily or ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily in ONCEMRK through Week 96 are presented in Table 6. In STARTMRK, clinical adverse reactions of all intensities (mild, moderate and severe) occurring in ≥2% of subjects on ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily through Week 240 also include diarrhea, flatulence, asthenia, decreased appetite, abnormal dreams, depression and nightmare. In ONCEMRK, clinical adverse reactions of all intensities (mild, moderate and severe) occurring in ≥2% of subjects on ISENTRESS HD or ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily through Week 96 also include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Table 6: Adverse Reactions Includes adverse experiences con …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Coadministration of ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD and other drugs may alter the plasma concentration of raltegravir. The potential for drug-drug interactions must be considered prior to and during therapy ( 7 ). Coadministration of ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD with drugs that are strong inducers of UGT1A1, such as rifampin, may result in reduced plasma concentrations of raltegravir ( 2.1 , 7.1 ). 7.1 Effect of Other Agents on the Pharmacokinetics of Raltegravir Raltegravir is not a substrate of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Based on in vivo and in vitro studies, raltegravir is eliminated mainly by metabolism via a UGT1A1-mediated glucuronidation pathway. Coadministration of ISENTRESS with drugs that inhibit UGT1A1 may increase plasma levels of raltegravir and coadministration of ISENTRESS with drugs that induce UGT1A1, such as rifampin, may reduce plasma levels of raltegravir (see Table 11 ). Selected drug interactions are presented in Table 11 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In some cases, recommendations differ for ISENTRESS versus ISENTRESS HD. Table 11: Selected Drug Interactions in Adults Concomitant Drug Class: Drug Name Effect on Concentration of Raltegravir Clinical Comment for ISENTRESS Clinical Comment for ISENTRESS HD Metal-Containing Antacids Aluminum and/or magnesium-containing antacids ↓ Coadministration or staggered administration is not recommended. Calcium carbonate antacid ↓ No dose adjustment Co-administration is not recommended Other Agents Rifampin ↓ The recommended dosage is 800 mg twice daily during coadministration with rifampin. There are no data to guide co-administration of ISENTRESS with rifampin in patients below 18 years of age [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. Coadministration is not recommended. Tipranavir/ritonavir No dose adjustment Coadministration is not recommended Etravirine ↓ No dose adjustment Coadministration is not recommended. Strong inducers of drug metabolizing enzymes not mentioned above e.g., Carbamazepine Phenobarbital Phenytoin ↓↔ The impact of other strong inducers of drug metabolizing enzymes on raltegravir is unknown. Coadministration is not recommended. 7.2 Drugs without Clinically Significant Interactions with ISENTRESS or ISENTRESS HD ISENTRESS In drug interaction studies performed using ISENTRESS film-coated tablets 400 mg twice daily dose, raltegravir did not have a clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of the following: ethinyl estradiol/norgestimate, methadone, midazolam, lamivudine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, etravirine, darunavir/ritonavir, or boceprevir. Moreover, atazanavir, atazanavir/ritonavir, boceprevir, calcium carbonate antacids, darunavir/ritonavir, efavirenz, etravirine, omeprazole, or tipranavir/ritonavir did not have a clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of 400 mg twice daily raltegravir. No dose adjustment is required when ISENTRESS 400 mg twice daily is coadministered with these drugs. There is no predicted pharmacokinetic drug interaction between ISENTRESS and tenofovir alafenamide. ISENTRESS HD In drug interaction studies, efavirenz did not have a clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg (2 × 600 mg) once daily. No dose adjustment is recommended when ISENTRESS HD 1200 mg once daily is coadministered with atazanavir, atazanavir/ritonavir, hormonal contraceptives, methadone, lamivudine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, darunavir/ritonavir, boceprevir, efavirenz and omeprazole. There is no predicted pharmacokinetic drug interaction between ISENTRESS HD and tenofovir alafenamide.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Women infected with HIV should be instructed not to breastfeed due to the potential for HIV transmission ( 8.2 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263. Risk Summary Available data from the APR show no difference in the rate of overall birth defects for raltegravir compared to the background rate for major birth defects of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) (see Data ) . The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR. The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15-20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Methodological limitations of the APR include the use of MACDP as the external comparator group. The MACDP population is not disease-specific, evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area, and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at <20 weeks gestation (see Data ) . In animal reproduction studies in rats and rabbits, no evidence of adverse developmental outcomes was observed with oral administration of raltegravir during organogenesis at doses that produced exposures up to approximately 4 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 1200 mg (see Data ) . Data Human Data Based on prospective reports from the APR of over 850 exposures to raltegravir during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 450 exposures in the first trimester), there was no difference between the overall risk of birth defects for raltegravir compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the MACDP. The prevalence of defects in live births was 3.1% (95% CI: 1.7% to 5.1%) following first trimester exposure to raltegravir-containing regimens and 3.7% (95% CI: 2.1% to 6.0%) following second and third trimester exposure to raltegravir-containing regimens. There are limited data on the use of ISENTRESS 1200 mg (2 x 600 mg) once daily in pregnant women. Animal Data In a combined embryo/fetal and pre/postnatal development study, raltegravir was administered orally to rats at doses of 100, 300, 600 mg/kg/day on gestation day 6 to 20 or from gestation day 6 to lactation day 20. No effects on pre/postnatal development were observed up to the highest dose tested. Embryo-fetal findings were limited to an increase in the incidence of supernumerary ribs in the 600 mg/kg/day group. Systemic exposure (AUC) at 600 mg/kg/day was approximately 3 times higher than exposure at the MRHD of 1200 mg. In pregnant rabbits, raltegravir was administered orally at doses of 100, 500, or 1000 mg/kg/day during the gestation days 7 to 20. No embryo/fetal effects were noted up to the highest dose of 1000 mg/kg/day. Systemic exposure (AUC) at 1000 mg/kg/day was approximately 4 times higher than exposures at the MRHD of 1200 mg. In both species, raltegravir has been shown to cross the placenta, with fetal plasma concentrations observed in rats approximately 1.5 to 2.5 times greater than in maternal plasma and fetal plasma concentrations in rabbits approximately 2% that of maternal concentrations on gestation day 20. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that HIV-1 infected mothers in the United States not breastfeed their infants to avoid risking postnatal transmission of HIV-1 infection. There are no data on the presence of raltegravir in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. When administered to lactating rats, raltegravir was present in milk (see Data ). Because of the potential for: 1) HIV transmission (in HIV-negative infants), 2) developing viral resista …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Raltegravir is an HIV-1 antiviral drug [see Microbiology (12.4) ] .

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION ISENTRESS contains raltegravir potassium, a human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitor. The chemical name for raltegravir potassium is N -[(4-Fluorophenyl) methyl]-1,6-dihydro-5-hydroxy-1-methyl-2-[1-methyl-1-[[(5-methyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)carbonyl]amino]ethyl]-6-oxo-4-pyrimidinecarboxamide monopotassium salt. The empirical formula is C 20 H 20 FKN 6 O 5 and the molecular weight is 482.51. The structural formula is: Raltegravir potassium is a white to off-white powder. It is soluble in water, slightly soluble in methanol, very slightly soluble in ethanol and acetonitrile and insoluble in isopropanol. Each 400 mg film-coated tablet of ISENTRESS for oral administration contains 434.4 mg of raltegravir (as potassium salt), equivalent to 400 mg of raltegravir free phenol and the following inactive ingredients: calcium phosphate dibasic anhydrous, hypromellose 2208, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, poloxamer 407 (contains 0.01% butylated hydroxytoluene as antioxidant), sodium stearyl fumarate. In addition, the film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: black iron oxide, polyethylene glycol 3350, polyvinyl alcohol, red iron oxide, talc and titanium dioxide. Each 600 mg film-coated tablet of ISENTRESS HD for oral administration contains 651.6 mg of raltegravir (as potassium salt), equivalent to 600 mg of raltegravir free phenol and the following inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose 2910, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose. The film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: ferrosoferric oxide, hypromellose 2910, iron oxide yellow, lactose monohydrate, triacetin and titanium dioxide. The tablet may also contain trace amount of carnauba wax. Each 100 mg chewable tablet of ISENTRESS for oral administration contains 108.6 mg of raltegravir (as potassium salt), equivalent to 100 mg of raltegravir free phenol and the following inactive ingredients: ammonium hydroxide, crospovidone, ethylcellulose 20 cP, fructose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose 2910/6cP, magnesium stearate, mannitol, medium chain triglycerides, monoammonium glycyrrhizinate, natural and artificial flavors (orange, banana, and masking that contains aspartame), oleic acid, PEG 400, red iron oxide, saccharin sodium, sodium citrate dihydrate, sodium stearyl fumarate, sorbitol, sucralose and yellow iron oxide. Each 25 mg chewable tablet of ISENTRESS for oral administration contains 27.16 mg of raltegravir (as potassium salt), equivalent to 25 mg of raltegravir free phenol and the following inactive ingredients: ammonium hydroxide, crospovidone, ethylcellulose 20 cP, fructose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose 2910/6cP, magnesium stearate, mannitol, medium chain triglycerides, monoammonium glycyrrhizinate, natural and artificial flavors (orange, banana, and masking that contains aspartame), oleic acid, PEG 400, saccharin sodium, sodium citrate dihydrate, sodium stearyl fumarate, sorbitol, sucralose and yellow iron oxide. Each packet of ISENTRESS for oral suspension 100 mg, contains 108.6 mg of raltegravir (as potassium salt), equivalent to 100 mg of raltegravir free phenol and the following inactive ingredients: ammonium hydroxide, banana with other natural flavors, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, crospovidone, ethylcellulose 20 cP, fructose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose 2910/6cP, macrogol/PEG 400, magnesium stearate, maltodextrin, mannitol, medium chain triglycerides, microcrystalline cellulose, monoammonium glycyrrhizinate, oleic acid, sorbitol, sucralose and sucrose. Chemical Structure

10 OVERDOSAGE In the event of an overdose, it is reasonable to employ the standard supportive measures, e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, employ clinical monitoring (including obtaining an electrocardiogram), and institute supportive therapy if required. The extent to which ISENTRESS may be dialyzable is unknown.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING ISENTRESS tablets 400 mg are pink, oval-shaped, film-coated tablets with "227" on one side. They are supplied as follows: NDC 0006-0227-61 unit-of-use bottles of 60. ISENTRESS HD tablets 600 mg are yellow, oval-shaped, film-coated tablets with corporate logo and "242" on one side and plain on the other side. They are supplied as follows: NDC 0006-3080-01 unit-of-use bottles of 60. ISENTRESS tablets 100 mg are pale orange, oval-shaped, orange-banana flavored, chewable tablets scored on both sides and imprinted on one face with the corporate logo and "477" on opposite sides of the score. They are supplied as follows: NDC 0006-0477-61 unit-of-use bottles of 60. ISENTRESS tablets 25 mg are pale yellow, round, orange-banana flavored, chewable tablets with the corporate logo on one side and "473" on the other side. They are supplied as follows: NDC 0006-0473-61 unit-of-use bottles of 60. ISENTRESS for oral suspension 100 mg is a white to off-white granular powder that may contain yellow or beige to tan particles, in child resistant single-use foil packets, packaged as A kit with two 1 mL syringes, two 3 mL syringes, two 10 mL syringes and two mixing cups. It is supplied as follows: NDC 0006-3603-61 unit of use carton with 60 packets. NDC 0006-3603-01 individual packet. Storage and Handling 400 mg Film-coated Tablets, 600 mg Film-coated Tablets, Chewable Tablets and For Oral Suspension Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). See USP Controlled Room Temperature. 400 mg Film-coated Tablets, 600 mg Film-coated Tablets and Chewable Tablets Store in the original package with the bottle tightly closed. Keep the desiccant in the bottle to protect from moisture. For Oral Suspension Store in the original container. Do not open foil packet until ready for use.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
16,416
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: RALTEGRAVIR POTASSIUM. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0006-0473-61 0006-0473 Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC 60 TABLET, CHEWABLE in 1 BOTTLE (0006-0473-61) December 21, 2011
0006-0477-61 0006-0477 Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC 60 TABLET, CHEWABLE in 1 BOTTLE (0006-0477-61) December 21, 2011
0006-0473 0006-0473 Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC — December 21, 2011
0006-0477 0006-0477 Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC — December 21, 2011

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.