INTRODUCTION
ZEPDON 400MG contains Raltegravir which belongs to the group of medicines called Antiviral agents. It is used to treat HIV infection. HIV infection is a viral infection that damages our immune system and weakens our body’s ability to fight against various infections. This is a major cause for a potentially life-threatening condition called AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). ZEPDON 400MG is suitable for use in both adults and in children (weighing above 2 kg).

Raltegravir is a HIV integrase inhibitor. It controls the multiplication of viral cells within the body by blocking the actions of a viral enzyme called HIV integrase which is essential for its survival. When combined with other medicines, it can reduce the number of viral cells present in the blood and improve immune functions.

ZEPDON 400MG cannot not cure HIV infection completely. It can reduce only the number of viral cells present in the body and maintains them at a lower level. During treatment with ZEPDON 400MG your doctor will closely monitor your body weight, blood cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.

Before taking ZEPDON 400MG inform your doctor if you have diabetes or any liver (hepatitis C or B infection) problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have a history of mental illness such as depression or psychosis.

Even if you take ZEPDON 400MG, it is important for you to follow certain measures to prevent the spread of infections to the other people (such as avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing needles or personal items like toothbrush, razors etc. with other people). ZEPDON 400MG is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

The most common side effects of taking ZEPDON 400MG are difficulty in sleeping, increased hunger, increased signs of infections, nausea, stomach pain, headache, and dizziness. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens. Also inform your doctor immediately if you experience severe fever with extreme tiredness, sudden changes in body weight, severe stomach pain along with dark urine or suicidal thoughts after taking ZEPDON 400MG.

USES OF ZEPDON 400MG

• Treats HIV infection

HOW ZEPDON 400MG WORKS
ZEPDON 400MG effectively controls HIV infection by blocking the actions of a viral enzyme called HIV integrase which is essential for its survival. When combined with other medicines, it can reduce the number of viral cells present in the blood and improve immune functions by increasing the number of certain types of white blood cells (CD4) in the body which is required for fighting against various infections.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Take ZEPDON 400MG as advised by your physician. Swallow ZEPDON 400MG with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. ZEPDON 400MG can be taken with or without food.

In case of children having difficulty in swallowing, consult your doctor for a suitable method of administration. Your doctor might suggest dissolving the medicine with few teaspoons of drinking water before administration.

Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration of therapy for you depending upon your age, body weight and severity of the infection. Do not stop taking ZEPDON 400MG or switch ZEPDON 400MG with any raltegravir suspension without consulting your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS OF ZEPDON 400MG

• COMMON
• Decreased appetite
• Sleep disturbances such as (trouble sleeping, abnormal dreams, nightmare)
• Depression
• Feeling dizzy, headache
• Spinning sensation
• Gastrointestinal problems (such as bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, excessive
• gas in the stomach or bowel, indigestion, belching)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Certain kinds of skin rashes
• Tiredness or weakness
• Fever

UNCOMMON

• Infection of the hair roots
• Flu-like symptoms, upper respiratory tract infection
• Allergic reaction, skin infection, redness of skin, thickening and itching of the skin due to repeated scratching, skin lesion, dry skin
• Pain in lymph node
• Warts
• Swelling of the glands present in the neck, armpit, and groin
• Increased appetite
• Diabetes
• Increased blood cholesterol levels
• Excessive thirst
• Severe weight loss
• Feeling anxious and confused, mood changes, panic attack
• Loss of memory
• Pain in the hand due to nerve compression, numbness, or weakness of the arms
• and/or legs
• Disturbance in attention, increased sleepiness
• Abnormal taste
• Forgetfulness, migraine headache
• Shaking (tremors)
• Visual disturbances
• Buzzing, hissing, whistling, ringing or other persistent noises in the ears
• Palpitations, slow heart rates, hot flush, high blood pressure
• Hoarseness of voice, nasal congestion, nosebleed
• Inflammation of the gums, swollen, red sore tongue
• Fatty liver
• Acne, unusual hair loss or thinning
• Unusual distribution of fat on the body, increased fat in abdomen
• Excessive sweating, night sweats
• Joint pain, muscle pain or tenderness, neck pain, pain in arms or legs,
• inflammation of the tendons
• Kidney stones, urination at night, cyst in the kidneys
• Erectile dysfunction, enlargement of breast in men, symptoms of menopause
• Chest discomfort, chills, swelling of face, feeling jittery, neck mass, swelling of
• hands, ankles, or feet

RARE

Stop taking ZEPDON 400MG and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• Herpes infections which include shingles
• Anaemia due to low iron
• Signs and symptoms of inflammation, infection
• Mental disorders, suicide intentions or attempt
• Stomach inflammation, inflammation of liver, liver failure
• Rash, skin, or allergic reactions
• Kidney problems
• Muscle weakness, weakness beginning in the hands and feet and moving up
• towards the trunk of the body, palpitations, tremor, or hyperactivity (opportunistic
• infections)
• Unexplained muscle pain or tenderness
• Signs of osteonecrosis (death of bone cells causing joint stiffness, pain in the hip,
• knee or shoulder and difficulty in moving)

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS
Headache:

Rest and relax. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water or electrolytes. Applying a pain-relieving balm on your forehead can be beneficial. Do not consume excessive alcohol, as it could aggravate your headache. Consult your doctor if your headache worsens.

Dizziness:

Try to rest and relax. Get enough sleep. Avoid driving or operating any heavy tools or machines completely while you are feeling dizzy. Do not consume excessive alcohol. Consult your doctor if your dizziness worsens.

Nausea and Vomiting:

Take ZEPDON 400MG with or just after a meal or a snack. Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating rich or spicy food. Consult your doctor if your nausea worsens.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS
PREGNANCY
Inform your doctor before taking ZEPDON 400MG if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant or planning to have a baby. ZEPDON 400MG should be used in pregnant women only if prescribed by the physician.

BREASTFEEDING
Breastfeeding should be discontinued in mothers infected with HIV. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking ZEPDON 400MG if you wish to breastfeed.

DRIVING AND USING MACHINES
Do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines if you feel dizzy after taking ZEPDON 400MG.

ALCOHOL
Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking ZEPDON 400MG.

LIVER
ZEPDON 400MG should be used with caution in patients with liver diseases (such as hepatitis B and C). Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

ALLERGY
Do not take ZEPDON 400MG if you are allergic to Raltegravir.

OTHERS
Before taking ZEPDON 400MG, inform your doctor if you:

• Have any mental health problems (such as depression or psychosis)
• Have history of infections
• Have a history of muscle disorders
• Have diabetes
• Have high blood cholesterol levels
• Use in pediatrics:

ZEPDON 400MG should be used with caution in children and adolescents (aged below 18 years). Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Use in geriatrics:

ZEPDON 400MG should be used with caution in elderly patients. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

INTERACTIONS
A. Drug-Drug Interaction:

Before taking ZEPDON 400MG, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

Antacids (used to neutralize stomach acid and to relieve indigestion and heartburn) Ex. aluminium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide
Iron salts (used to treat and prevent anemia iron deficiency) Ex. ferrous sulphate
Rifampicin (an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis)
Overdosage:

If you or anyone else accidentally took more ZEPDON 400MG, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital.

SYNOPSIS
Drug :Raltegravir

Pharmacological Category :HIV integrase inhibitors

Therapeutic Indication :HIV infection

Dosage Forms :Tablet

MORE INFORMATION
Keep ZEPDON 400MG out of reach of children
Store ZEPDON 400MG below 25°C
FAQs ABOUT ZEPDON 400MG
What is ZEPDON 400MG?

ZEPDON 400MG is an antiviral medicine used to treat HIV infections. It controls the multiplication of viral cells within the body by blocking the actions of a viral enzyme called HIV integrase which is essential for its survival.

What are the uses of ZEPDON 400MG?

ZEPDON 400MG is used to control human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults, and in children weighing at least 4.4 pounds (2 kg) along with other medicines. It should be used only after consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of ZEPDON 400MG?

The most common side effects of taking ZEPDON 400MG are difficulty in sleeping, increased hunger, increased signs of infections, nausea, stomach pain, headache, and dizziness. Consult your doctor if any of these side effect worsens. Also inform your doctor immediately if you experience severe fever with extreme tiredness, sudden changes in body weight, severe stomach pain along with dark urine or suicidal thoughts after taking ZEPDON 400MG.

Does ZEPDON 400MG cause depression?

Yes. ZEPDON 400MG may cause depression in some individuals. Therefore, consult your doctor immediately if you experience extreme sadness with thoughts of harming or killing yourself (suicidal ideation) after taking ZEPDON 400MG.

When should I take ZEPDON 400MG?

ZEPDON 400MG can be taken with or without food. Try to take ZEPDON 400MG at the same time(s) each day as advised by your physician. Your doctor will decide the frequency of administration depending upon your age, body weight and severity of the infection. If you have any doubts, please consult your doctor for advice.

How long should I take ZEPDON 400MG?

If you are taking ZEPDON 400MG after exposure to human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection, it should be taken for 28 days. If you are taking it as part of your HIV regimen, you should continue to take ZEPDON 400MG until your doctor tells you to stop.

Can I stop taking ZEPDON 400MG once my symptoms subside?

ZEPDON 400MG cannot not cure HIV infection completely. It can reduce only the number of viral cells present in the body and maintains them at a lower level. Therefore, do not stop taking ZEPDON 400MG without consulting your doctor. Continue to take ZEPDON 400MG even if you feel better after few days of taking it. This will help ZEPDON 400MG to work better. Skipping doses or sudden withdrawal of ZEPDON 400MG in between the therapy may once again increase the number of viral cells within the body.

How to take ZEPDON 400MG?

Take ZEPDON 400MG as advised by your physician. Swallow ZEPDON 400MG with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. ZEPDON 400MG can be taken with or without food. In case of children having difficulty in swallowing, consult your doctor for a suitable method of administration. Your doctor might suggest dissolving the medicine with few teaspoons of drinking water before administration.

Can ZEPDON 400MG be taken by pregnant and breast-feeding women?

Inform your doctor before taking ZEPDON 400MG if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant or planning to have a baby. ZEPDON 400MG should be used in pregnant women only if prescribed by the physician. Breastfeeding should be discontinued in mothers infected with HIV. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking ZEPDON 400MG if you wish to breastfeed.

REFERENCES
1. KD. Tripathi. Antiviral Drugs. Essentials of Medical Pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 811.

2. Compound Summary. Raltegravir. NIH. National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Pubchem. [Accessed 17th May 2022] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Raltegravir

3. Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in October 2021] [Accessed on 17th May 2022] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6171.pdf

4. Isentress. Raltegravir film coated tablet 400mg. [Accessed on 6th July 2022] https://www.isentress.com/frequently-asked-questions/

USEFUL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs)
Antigen/Antibody Combination Test
Antibody Test
Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Substitutes for Zepdon 400 Tablet

Ralmac 400mg Tablet 60’s