Maraviroc is used to treat HIV infection associated with the so-called CCR5-tropic virus variants.
What is Maraviroc?
Maraviroc works by blocking the virus from entering into the cells. It does so by interfering with the activity of the co-receptor CCR5.
How should Maraviroc be taken?
Maraviroc is administered orally in combination with other medications.
Side effects associated with Maraviroc
Treatment with maraviroc may be associated with the occurrence of liver problems, severe skin reactions and infections.
Among the other possible side effects of maraviroc include the following:
- Constipation
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Muscle or joint pain
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Inflammation of the sinuses
- Stomach ache
- Insomnia
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Diarrhea with blood in the stool
- Burning, numbness or tingling
- Pain in the chest, jaw or arm
- Confusion
- Depression
- Difficult or painful urination
- Fainting
- Fever, chills or sore throat
- Flu-like symptoms
- Weakness in one side of body
- Redness, swelling, blistering or peeling of the skin
- Convulsions
- Severe muscle pain
- Severe or persistent dizziness
- Severe or persistent stomach ache
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty speaking
- Blisters or white patches in the mouth
- Severe or persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unusual sweating, fatigue or weakness
- Swelling of the hands, ankles, legs or feet
- Symptoms of liver problems
- Unusual nodules or skin growths
- Vision problems
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Maraviroc
Maraviroc is contraindicated in cases involving treatment with St. John's wort, severe kidney problems or dialysis combined with intake of certain medications.
The intake of the drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect may be aggravated by alcohol and certain other medications.High temperatures, physical exercise and fever can all increase dizziness caused by the medication, especially in case of those suffering from severe kidney problems. To avoid possible harmful consequences such as dizziness, it is vital to get up slowly from a lying or seated position (especially in the morning).
Before starting treatment with maraviroc, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or to any other drugs, food or various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: drugs to lower blood pressure, azole antifungals, delavirdine, macrolide antibiotics, nefazodone, protease inhibitors, telithromycin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, efavirenz, etravirine, hydantoins, rifamycins or hypericum
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from kidney or liver problems, heart problems, low blood pressure or dizziness when standing up from a lying or seated position
- You are at high risk of cardiovascular disease
- You are on dialysis
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
