Stribild

Stribild is a fixed-dose combination antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults. It contains four active ingredients: elvitegravir, an integrase strand transfer inhibitor; cobicistat, a pharmacokinetic booster; emtricitabine; and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. The tablet is taken once daily, with food, to optimize absorption.

The regimen works as part of combination antiretroviral therapy. Elvitegravir inhibits the integration of viral DNA into the host genome, while cobicistat inhibits certain enzymes to raise and maintain therapeutic levels of elvitegravir and other drugs in the tablet. Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that help block HIV replication.

Stribild is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults as part of ART. It is not a cure and is intended for ongoing treatment under medical supervision. Safety considerations include common adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache. Because tenofovir disoproxil fumarate can affect kidney function and bone mineral density, renal function and bone health should be monitored. Less common but serious risks include lactic acidosis and hepatic events; and in hepatitis B coinfection, stopping therapy can lead to a flare of hepatitis B.

Drug interactions and contraindications are important. Stribild should not be used with certain medications, including rifampin, due to reduced drug levels. Cobicistat can interact with drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A or transported by renal proteins; patients should inform clinicians of all medicines, supplements, and herbal products. Pregnancy and breastfeeding require careful consideration and counseling.