What is Reydin and its active ingredients?
Reydin is a fixed-dose combination (FDC) antiretroviral medication for treating HIV-1 infection in adults. This FDC contains three active antiretroviral drugs:
- Dolutegravir (50 mg): An integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that blocks the HIV enzyme integrase, preventing the virus from inserting its genetic material into host cell DNA.
- Lamivudine (300 mg): A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that inhibits the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase, essential for viral multiplication.
- Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (300 mg): Another NRTI that blocks reverse transcriptase after being converted to its active form.
The combination of these drugs targets different stages of the HIV life cycle, providing a powerful effect against the virus. Combining them into a single tablet also improves adherence.
How is Reydin used for HIV treatment?
Reydin is prescribed for adults over 18 with HIV-1 infection as part of a comprehensive management plan. Its goal is to suppress the viral load to undetectable levels, improving immune function, preventing disease progression, and reducing transmission risk. The typical dose is one tablet daily, taken orally with or without food. Consistent daily intake is vital to prevent drug resistance.
Other uses: PEP
Reydin can also be used for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). PEP is taken after potential HIV exposure and must start within 72 hours. However, Reydin is not used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), where medication is taken before potential exposure to prevent infection; other regimens like Truvada are used for PrEP.
Potential side effects and important warnings
Reydin, like other medications, can cause side effects. Patients should inform their doctor about any adverse effects.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea and diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue and weakness
- Insomnia or abnormal dreams
- Rash or itching
- Loss of appetite
Serious warnings and considerations:
- Lactic Acidosis and Liver Problems: Nucleoside analogs like lamivudine and tenofovir are linked to rare but serious lactic acidosis.
- Exacerbation of Hepatitis B: Discontinuing Reydin in patients co-infected with HIV and HBV can severely worsen the HBV infection. Liver function needs monitoring for months after stopping treatment.
- Kidney Toxicity: Tenofovir can impact kidney function, requiring monitoring in patients with existing kidney issues or those on other kidney-damaging medications.
- Bone Mineral Density: Tenofovir may decrease bone mineral density. Monitoring might be needed for at-risk patients.
- Pregnancy: Dolutegravir is linked to a small increased risk of neural tube defects when used in the first trimester. Healthcare providers should discuss this with women of childbearing potential, and effective contraception is recommended.
- Drug Interactions: Reydin can interact with various drugs, including certain antacids that need to be taken several hours apart. Interactions also occur with medications like metformin and St. John's Wort.
Comparison with other common HIV treatments
Reydin is one of several effective antiretroviral treatments. Other options differ in ingredients, dosage, and side effects. Treatment choice depends on individual factors like health, viral resistance, and tolerability.
| Feature | Reydin (TLD) | Biktarvy | Atripla (Generic: Odimune) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Dolutegravir, Lamivudine, Tenofovir DF | Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir AF | Efavirenz, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir DF |
| Mechanism | Integrase Inhibitor + 2 NRTIs | Integrase Inhibitor + 2 NRTIs | NNRTI + 2 NRTIs |
| Dosage | Once daily | Once daily | Once daily |
| Food Requirement | With or without food | With or without food | Empty stomach, at night to reduce CNS side effects |
| CNS Side Effects | Insomnia, abnormal dreams, dizziness | Less common | Vivid dreams, mood disturbances, dizziness |
| Bone/Kidney Safety | Contains Tenofovir DF; potential bone/kidney concerns | Contains Tenofovir AF; generally considered safer for bone/kidney | Contains Tenofovir DF; potential bone/kidney concerns |
Conclusion
Reydin tablets are a potent, single-pill, triple-combination antiretroviral medication for treating HIV-1 in adults. It effectively suppresses the virus and restores immune function by combining dolutegravir, lamivudine, and tenofovir. Strict adherence to the once-daily dose is crucial for effectiveness. Patients should be aware of potential side effects, particularly concerning kidney and liver health, especially those with co-occurring HBV. Healthcare providers must discuss pregnancy risks with women of childbearing age. Treatment decisions should always involve a healthcare professional experienced in HIV care.
For more information, patients can consult the Patient Information Leaflet from the manufacturer.
