What is Complera?
Complera is a complete prescription regimen used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children weighing at least 35 kg. It is a single-tablet combination of three active drugs: emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). This medication is designed for patients who are either new to antiretroviral therapy or are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies/mL) on a stable regimen. By combining three drugs into one pill, Complera simplifies the treatment process, making it more convenient for patients to manage their condition effectively.
How does Complera work?
Complera works by combining the mechanisms of its three active ingredients to stop the HIV virus from replicating in the body. Emtricitabine and tenofovir DF are Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs), while rilpivirine is a Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NNRTI). Both types of drugs target a crucial enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which HIV needs to make copies of its genetic material. The NRTIs act as faulty building blocks, while the NNRTI directly binds to and disables the enzyme. By inhibiting this enzyme in two different ways, Complera effectively lowers the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load), allowing the immune system to recover.
Who is Complera for?
Complera is intended for use by adults and adolescents (weighing at least 77 lbs or 35 kg) for treating HIV-1 infection. It is typically prescribed for individuals who are starting antiretroviral therapy for the first time and have a viral load of 100,000 copies/mL or less. It can also be used to replace a current antiretroviral regimen in patients who have been virologically suppressed for at least six months, have no history of treatment failure, and are not resistant to any of the three components in Complera. A healthcare provider will determine if this single-tablet regimen is the right choice based on a patient’s specific medical history and viral characteristics.
Dosage and administration
The standard dosage for Complera is one tablet taken orally, once per day, and it must be taken with a meal. Taking the medication with food, particularly a meal that contains some fat, is critical as it helps the body absorb the rilpivirine component properly. A protein drink alone is not a substitute for a food-based meal. It is important to take Complera at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the drug in your system. If you miss a dose, take it with food as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose (within 12 hours), skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
While Complera helps manage HIV, it can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects include trouble sleeping, headache, dizziness, nausea, and rash. More serious side effects can occur, such as a buildup of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis), severe liver problems, new or worsening kidney issues, bone density loss, and mental health problems like depression or mood changes. It is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience unusual muscle pain, stomach pain with nausea, severe tiredness, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. An allergic reaction is also possible and requires emergency medical attention.
Why buy from IsraelPharm?
Choosing IsraelPharm for your medication needs provides a blend of affordability, reliability, and convenience. We source our medications, including brand-name options like Complera, from legitimate, regulated suppliers, ensuring you receive the same authentic products you would from a local pharmacy. Because of differences in international drug pricing, we are able to offer significant savings. Our streamlined online ordering process is overseen by experienced pharmacists, providing a secure and professional service that delivers your vital HIV treatment directly to your door, saving you time and money without compromising on quality or safety.
Like all medications, Complera can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Your doctor has prescribed this because they believe the benefit is greater than the risk of side effects.
Common side effects may include:
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), abnormal dreams
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects, such as:
- Signs of lactic acidosis (e.g., unusual muscle pain, weakness, trouble breathing).
- Signs of liver problems (e.g., yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite).
- Signs of kidney problems (e.g., increased thirst, changes in urination).
- Severe depression, mood changes, or thoughts of suicide.
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of the face/throat, trouble breathing, blisters).
This is not a complete list. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Complera is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in specific patients. HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If left untreated, it can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Early signs of HIV infection can resemble the flu and may include:
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Skin rash
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat
- Night sweats
Complera helps to control the virus but is not a cure for HIV.