Why is this medication prescribed?

Apretude is prescribed primarily for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents who are 12 years or older and weigh at least 35 kg. It is used as a part of a comprehensive HIV treatment regimen.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines:

• Administration: Apretude is administered as an intramuscular injection. It is typically given once every two months after an initial loading dose regimen.
• Initial Loading Dose: Two injections are given one month apart to achieve optimal drug levels before transitioning to the maintenance schedule.
• Maintenance Schedule: After the initial loading doses, the injection is given every two months.
• Preparation and Administration: Apretude should be administered by a healthcare professional experienced in the injection process. The injection is given into the gluteal muscle (buttocks).
• Adherence: Regular dosing is crucial for maintaining effective drug levels and ensuring the treatment’s efficacy.

If you have specific questions about dosage or any changes to your treatment plan, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Apretude (cabotegravir) is primarily used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It is not approved for other uses beyond the management of HIV-1. However, research and clinical trials might explore its potential applications in different contexts, but currently, its use is limited to HIV treatment.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Apretude:

• Adherence to Dosing Schedule: It is crucial to adhere strictly to the dosing schedule to maintain effective drug levels and avoid potential resistance. Missing doses or delaying injections can compromise treatment effectiveness.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies, especially to cabotegravir or any of its components. Severe allergic reactions are rare but can occur.
• Drug Interactions: Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as they may interact with Apretude.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider the potential risks and benefits of using Apretude.
• Other Health Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other health conditions you have, particularly liver or kidney issues, as these can affect how the medication is metabolized and excreted.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of HIV-1 viral load and CD4 cell count is essential to ensure the medication is working effectively. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the necessary monitoring schedules.
• Injection Site Reactions: Be aware of potential injection site reactions such as pain, redness, or swelling. Report any persistent or severe reactions to your healthcare provider.
• Resistance: If you have been on other antiretroviral therapies, discuss with your healthcare provider whether there is a risk of drug resistance. Your healthcare provider might conduct tests to assess this before starting Apretude.

Following these precautions can help ensure that Apretude is used safely and effectively in managing your HIV-1 infection.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions or special dietary instructions associated with Apretude. However, maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can support overall well-being and improve treatment outcomes.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Forgetting an Injection: If you miss a scheduled injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to administer the missed dose yourself.
• Timing of Rescheduled Injection: Your healthcare provider will advise on the best course of action based on how long it has been since the missed dose.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not try to make up for a missed dose by doubling up on your next injection.
• Follow-Up: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to get back on track with your treatment schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Apretude (cabotegravir) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, or swelling at the site of the injection.
• Fever: Mild fever may occur.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches.
• Nausea: A feeling of nausea or upset stomach.

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions are rare but can include symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Hepatotoxicity: Liver issues, including elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis, can occur. Symptoms might include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Immune Reconstitution Syndrome: A condition where the immune system becomes overly active as it starts to recover, potentially causing inflammation or worsening of existing infections.
• Psychiatric Effects: Some individuals may experience mood changes or depression.
• Muscle or Joint Pain: Less common but possible.

If you experience any severe or concerning symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular follow-ups and monitoring can help manage side effects and ensure the medication is working effectively.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Apretude:

• Storage:
  • Store Apretude in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
  • Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from light and moisture.
  • Ensure it is stored out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Follow local regulations for disposing of medications. Many pharmacies offer take-back programs for unused or expired medications.
  • Do not flush Apretude down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by a medication take-back program or local disposal guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you experience severe side effects, an allergic reaction, or any other urgent medical condition, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Symptoms: There is limited specific information on the effects of an overdose of Apretude. Symptoms might include those of severe side effects.
• Action: Contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center right away for advice on what to do if an overdose is suspected.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular medical check-ups and monitoring of your HIV-1 viral load and CD4 cell count are important to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Adherence to Treatment: Adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule is crucial for the effectiveness of Apretude and to prevent the development of drug resistance.
• Informing Healthcare Providers: Keep your healthcare provider informed of any other medications you are taking, as well as any changes in your health status or new symptoms.
• Patient Support: Utilize available support resources such as patient assistance programs or counseling if needed to help manage your treatment and any associated challenges.

If you have any more specific questions or concerns, your healthcare provider is the best resource for personalized advice and guidance.