INSTGRA 50 (50mg Dolutegravir)

Product Information

INSTGRA (Dolutegravir) belongs to a group of medicines called antiretrovirals. It is used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). It prevents the multiplication of viruses in human cells and helps control infection.

This medicine is not a cure for HIV or AIDS. It helps decrease the amount of HIV in your body, lowers the risk of HIV-related complications, and improves lifespan. INSTGRA is prescribed in combination with other HIV medicines.

• Take INSTGRA exactly as directed by your doctor.
• It may be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time each day.
• Do not skip doses, as this reduces effectiveness and increases resistance risk.
• Continue treatment until your doctor advises it is safe to stop.

Why is this Medication Prescribed?

INSTGRA is prescribed for the treatment of HIV infection, in combination with other antiretroviral medicines, to reduce viral load and improve immune function.

Uses

• Treatment of HIV infection
• Used alongside other HIV medicines as part of combination therapy

Benefits

• Helps lower HIV levels in the body
• Reduces the risk of HIV-related complications
• Improves quality of life and life expectancy
• Decreases the chance of HIV transmission when combined with safe practices

How Should this Medicine be Used?

• Take INSTGRA at the same time each day.
• May be taken with or without food.
• Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully.
• Do not stop taking the medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Other Uses

Currently, INSTGRA is not used for conditions other than HIV treatment.

⚠️ HIV Transmission Safety Warning

INSTGRA helps lower HIV levels but does not completely prevent transmission of the virus. You can still pass HIV to others. To reduce the risk:

• Do not have unprotected sex. Always use condoms.
• Do not share needles, razors, toothbrushes, or other personal items.
• Follow your doctor’s advice on safe practices to prevent spreading HIV.
• Continue regular monitoring and treatment to keep viral load as low as possible.

Special Precautions

Before taking INSTGRA, inform your doctor if you have:

• Liver disease or liver damage
• Kidney problems
• Skin conditions or history of allergic reactions

Important precautions while using INSTGRA:

• Regular blood tests may be needed to check blood counts and liver function.
• Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Increased liver enzymes

Less common but serious side effects:

• Severe skin reactions (rash, peeling, blisters)
• Liver damage (yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine, abdominal pain)

Seek medical advice if side effects are severe or persistent.

Storage & Disposal

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct heat.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package.
• Dispose of unused or expired medicine safely, following pharmacist or local guidelines.

Emergency Guidance

• Overdose: Call your doctor or local poison control center immediately.
• Allergic reaction: Seek emergency help if you experience rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe side effects: Go to the nearest emergency department if you develop symptoms of liver damage, severe skin reactions, or uncontrolled allergic responses.