home > drugs a-z list > intelence (entravirine tablets) drug center > intelence (entravirine tablets) drug - consumer side effects and precautions

Etravirine can commonly cause a mild rash that is usually not serious. The rash usually occurs during the second week of treatment and goes away in 1 to 2 weeks. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction. Therefore, seek immediate medical attention if you develop any rash.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: numbness/tingling of arms/legs, irregular heartbeat, unusual tiredness/weakness, increased thirst/urination, change in the amount of urine, mental/mood changes (e.g., nervousness, confusion), seizures.

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest/jaw/left arm pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.

Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medication (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor, as well as the possible role of exercise to reduce this side effect.

When you first start this medication (or other HIV medications), you may experience symptoms of an old infection. This may happen as your immune system begins to work better. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms: new cough, trouble breathing, signs of infection (e.g., fever), new vision problems, new headaches, new skin problems.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, muscle/joint pain, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking etravirine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease (e.g., hepatitis B, hepatitis C).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Because breast milk can transmit HIV, do not breast-feed.