Rilpivirine
Rilpivirine is used along with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in certain adults and children 12 years of age and older who weigh at least 77 lb (35 kg) and have not received antiretroviral treatment in the past. It is also used along with cabotegravir (Vocabria) as a short-term treatment of HIV-1 infection in certain adults. Rilpivirine is in a class of medications called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). It works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although rilpivirine does not cure HIV, it may decrease your chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer. Taking these medications along with practicing safer sex and making other lifestyle changes may decrease the risk of transmitting (spreading) the HIV virus to other people.
🔔 How should this medicine be used?
Rilpivirine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with a meal (not just a protein drink) once a day. When rilpivirine is taken along with cabotegravir, it is usually taken once daily with a meal. Take rilpivirine alone or along with cabotegravir at around the same time every day. Rilpivirine is taken along with cabotegravir for about one month (for at least 28 days) prior to starting treatment with the long-acting injectable forms of these medications or for up to 2 months if the injectable treatment schedule is missed for more than 7 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take rilpivirine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Rilpivirine controls HIV but does not cure it. Continue to take rilpivirine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking rilpivirine without talking to your doctor. When your supply of rilpivirine starts to run low, get more from your doctor or pharmacist. If you miss doses or stop taking rilpivirine, your condition may become more difficult to treat.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.