DOLUTEGRAVIR: 10,772 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
Boost Your Natural Energy & Metabolism
Mitolyn — 6 exotic plants to unlock your body's fat-burning power. 90-day guarantee.
Active Ingredient: DOLUTEGRAVIR SODIUM · Drug Class: HIV Integrase Inhibitors [MoA] · Route: ORAL · Manufacturer: ViiV Healthcare Company · FDA Application: 204790 · HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · FDA Label: Available
Patent Expires: Oct 5, 2027 · First Report: 1996 · Latest Report: 20250930
What Are the Most Common DOLUTEGRAVIR Side Effects?
All DOLUTEGRAVIR Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foetal exposure during pregnancy | 1,036 | 9.6% | 93 | 66 |
| Exposure during pregnancy | 776 | 7.2% | 110 | 95 |
| Virologic failure | 770 | 7.2% | 16 | 61 |
| Pathogen resistance | 586 | 5.4% | 2 | 13 |
| Maternal exposure during pregnancy | 517 | 4.8% | 14 | 41 |
| Viral mutation identified | 510 | 4.7% | 4 | 11 |
| Treatment failure | 453 | 4.2% | 96 | 11 |
| Drug ineffective | 447 | 4.2% | 133 | 55 |
| Off label use | 413 | 3.8% | 116 | 48 |
| Blood hiv rna increased | 410 | 3.8% | 12 | 28 |
| Treatment noncompliance | 409 | 3.8% | 20 | 90 |
| Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome | 403 | 3.7% | 58 | 208 |
| Headache | 401 | 3.7% | 102 | 76 |
| Pyrexia | 398 | 3.7% | 122 | 154 |
| Death | 397 | 3.7% | 392 | 29 |
| Abortion spontaneous | 380 | 3.5% | 2 | 7 |
| Fatigue | 373 | 3.5% | 106 | 64 |
| Rash | 353 | 3.3% | 103 | 61 |
| Product dose omission issue | 314 | 2.9% | 1 | 18 |
| Nausea | 291 | 2.7% | 28 | 81 |
Who Reports DOLUTEGRAVIR Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 42.1% female, 57.9% male. Average age: 44.5 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is DOLUTEGRAVIR Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2001 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2002 | 9 | 0 | 2 |
| 2004 | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| 2005 | 8 | 0 | 4 |
| 2006 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| 2007 | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| 2009 | 6 | 2 | 5 |
| 2010 | 8 | 0 | 1 |
| 2011 | 24 | 9 | 8 |
| 2012 | 34 | 0 | 10 |
| 2013 | 64 | 3 | 32 |
| 2014 | 364 | 17 | 138 |
| 2015 | 421 | 38 | 147 |
| 2016 | 401 | 35 | 135 |
| 2017 | 480 | 30 | 145 |
| 2018 | 733 | 49 | 220 |
| 2019 | 491 | 27 | 122 |
| 2020 | 289 | 17 | 68 |
| 2021 | 311 | 31 | 53 |
| 2022 | 282 | 33 | 43 |
| 2023 | 230 | 28 | 31 |
| 2024 | 220 | 29 | 35 |
| 2025 | 94 | 15 | 25 |
What Is DOLUTEGRAVIR Used For?
| Indication | Reports |
|---|---|
| Hiv infection | 7,207 |
| Product used for unknown indication | 2,252 |
| Antiretroviral therapy | 241 |
| Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome | 149 |
| Prophylaxis against hiv infection | 95 |
| Hiv test positive | 77 |
| Maternal exposure timing unspecified | 49 |
| Hepatitis b | 30 |
| Antiviral treatment | 24 |
| Acute hiv infection | 23 |
DOLUTEGRAVIR vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Other Drugs in Same Class: HIV Integrase Inhibitors [MoA]
Official FDA Label for DOLUTEGRAVIR
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
JULUCA is a fixed-dose combination tablet containing dolutegravir (as dolutegravir sodium), an INSTI, and rilpivirine (as rilpivirine hydrochloride), an NNRTI. The chemical name of dolutegravir sodium is sodium (4 R ,12a S )-9-{[(2,4-difluorophenyl)methyl]carbamoyl}-4-methyl-6,8-dioxo-3,4,6,8,12,12a-hexahydro-2 H -pyrido[1',2':4,5]pyrazino[2,1- b ][1,3]oxazin-7-olate. The empirical formula is C 20 H 18 F 2 N 3 NaO 5, and the molecular weight is 441.36 g/mol. It has the following structural formula: Dolutegravir sodium is a white to light yellow powder and is slightly soluble in water. The chemical name for rilpivirine hydrochloride is 4-[[4-[[4-[(E)-2-cyanoethenyl]-2,6-dimethylphenyl]amino]-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]benzonitrile monohydrochloride. Its molecular formula is C 22 H 18 N 6
- HCl and its molecular weight is 402.88 g/mol. Rilpivirine hydrochloride has the following structural formula: Rilpivirine hydrochloride is a white to almost white powder. Rilpivirine hydrochloride is practically insoluble in water over a wide pH range. JULUCA tablets are for oral administration. Each film-coated tablet contains the active ingredients 50 mg of dolutegravir (equivalent to 52.6 mg dolutegravir sodium) and 25 mg of rilpivirine (equivalent to 27.5 mg rilpivirine hydrochloride) and the inactive ingredients croscarmellose sodium, D-mannitol, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polysorbate 20, povidone K29/32 and K30, silicified microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, and sodium stearyl fumarate. The tablet film‑coating contains the inactive ingredients iron oxide red, iron oxide yellow, macrogol/PEG, polyvinyl alcohol-part hydrolyzed, talc, and titanium dioxide. Dolutegravir sodium chemical structure Rilpivirine hydrochloride chemical structure
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
AND USAGE TIVICAY and TIVICAY PD are indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV‑1 infection in adults (treatment-naïve or -experienced) and in pediatric patients (treatment-naïve or -experienced but integrase strand transfer inhibitor [INSTI]-naïve) aged at least 4 weeks and weighing at least 3 kg [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )]. TIVICAY is indicated in combination with rilpivirine as a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults to replace the current antiretroviral regimen in those who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies/ mL) on a stable antiretroviral regimen for at least 6 months with no history of treatment failure or known substitutions associated with resistance to either antiretroviral agent. TIVICAY and TIVICAY PD are an HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults (treatment-naïve or -experienced) and in pediatric patients (treatment-naïve or -experienced but INSTI- naïve) aged at least 4 weeks and weighing at least 3 kg. ( 1 ) TIVICAY is indicated in combination with rilpivirine as a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults to replace the current antiretroviral regimen in those who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies/mL) on a stable antiretroviral regimen for at least 6 months with no history of treatment failure or known substitutions associated with resistance to either antiretroviral agent. ( 1 )
Dosage & Administration
AND ADMINISTRATION
- May be taken without regard to food. ( 2.2 , 2.6) UGT = uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase; CYP = cytochrome P450. a Rilpivirine dose is 25 mg once daily for those switching to dolutegravir plus rilpivirine. b Alternative combinations that do not include metabolic inducers should be considered where possible.
Adult Population Recommended Dose
Treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced INSTI-naïve or virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies per mL) adults switching to dolutegravir plus rilpivirine a ( 2.1 ) 50 mg once daily Treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced INSTI-naïve when coadministered with certain UGT1A or CYP3A inducers ( 2.1 , 7.2 , 7.3 ) 50 mg twice daily INSTI-experienced with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance b ( 2.1 , 12.4 ) 50 mg twice daily Pediatric Patients: Treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced INSTI-naïve patients aged at least 4 weeks and weighing at least 3 kg.
See Tables
2 , 3 , and 4 for complete pediatric dosing recommendations. ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 2.5 ). TIVICAY and TIVICAY PD are not bioequivalent and are not substitutable on a milligram-per-milligram basis. a If certain UGT1A or CYP3A inducers are coadministered, then adjust the weight-based dose of TIVICAY to twice daily. ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 7.2 , 7.3 )
Pediatric Population Body Weight Recommended
Dose a TIVICAY PD Tablets for Oral Suspension 3 kg to less than 6 kg 5 mg once daily 6 kg to less than 10 kg 15 mg once daily 10 kg to less than 14 kg 20 mg once daily 14 kg to less than 20 kg 25 mg once daily 20 kg and greater 30 mg once daily Alternative dosing recommendations for TIVICAY tablets for patients weighing at least 14 kg ( Table 4 ):
- 14 kg to less than 20 kg: 40 mg once daily.
- 20 kg and greater: 50 mg once daily.
2.1 Recommended Dosage in Adults TIVICAY tablets may be taken with or without food.
Table
1.
Dosing
Recommendations for TIVICAY Tablets in Adult Patients INSTI = integrase strand transfer inhibitor. a Rilpivirine dose is 25 mg once daily for those switching to dolutegravir plus rilpivirine. b Alternative combinations that do not include metabolic inducers should be considered where possible [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] .
Population Recommended Dosage
Treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced INSTI-naïve or virologically suppressed (HIV‑1 RNA <50 copies/mL) adults switching to dolutegravir plus rilpivirine a 50 mg once daily Treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced INSTI-naïve when coadministered with certain uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A) or cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A inducers [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 )] 50 mg twice daily INSTI-experienced with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance b [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] 50 mg twice daily
2.2 General Dosing and Administration Instructions for Pediatric Patients Do not substitute TIVICAY tablets and TIVICAY PD tablets for oral suspension on a milligram-per-milligram basis due to differing pharmacokinetic profiles <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]</span>. If switching from the tablets to the tablets for oral suspension, follow the recommended dosage in Table 3 . If switching from the tablets for oral suspension to the tablets, follow the recommended dosage in Table 4 . See administration instructions in [Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
2.3 Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patients Weighing 3 to 14 kg The recommended weight-based dosage of TIVICAY PD tablets for oral suspension in pediatric patients weighing 3 to 14 kg (4 weeks and older, treatment-naïve, or treatment-experienced but naïve to INSTI treatment) is described in Table 2 . Do not use TIVICAY tablets in patients weighing 3 to 14 kg. See administration instructions in [Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
Table
2.
Recommended
Dosage of TIVICAY PD in Pediatric Patients 4 Weeks and Older Weighing 3 to 14 kg a If certain uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A or cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A inducers are coadministered, then administer TIVICAY PD twice daily [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 )] .
Body
Weight TIVICAY PD Tablets for Oral Suspension Daily Dose a Number of 5-mg Tablets 3 kg to less than 6 kg 5 mg once daily 1 6 kg to less than 10 kg 15 mg once daily 3 10 kg to less than 14 kg 20 mg once daily 4
2.4 Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patients Weighing 14 kg or Greater For pediatric patients weighing 14 kg or greater (4 weeks and older, treatment-naïve, or treatment-experienced but naïve to INSTI treatment) administer either:
- TIVICAY PD tablets for oral suspension (preferred in pediatric patients weighing less than 20 kg) ( Table 3 ), or
- TIVICAY tablets for oral use ( Table 4 )
Table
3.
Recommended
Dosage of TIVICAY PD Tablets for Oral Suspension in Pediatric Patients Weighing 14 kg or Greater a If certain UGT1A or CYP3A inducers are coadministered, then administer TIVICAY PD twice daily [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 )] .
Body
Weight TIVICAY PD Tablets for Oral Suspension Daily Dose a Number of 5-mg Tablets 14 kg to less than 20 kg 25 mg once daily 5 20 kg and greater 30 mg once daily 6 Table 4.
Recommended
Dosage of TIVICAY Tablets in Pediatric Patients Weighing 14 kg or Greater a If certain UGT1A or CYP3A inducers are coadministered, then administer TIVICAY twice daily [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 )] .
Body
Weight TIVICAY Tablets Daily Dose a Number of Tablets 14 kg to less than 20 kg 40 mg once daily 4 x 10-mg 20 kg and greater 50 mg once daily 1 x 50-mg
2.5 Additional Administration Instructions Administer TIVICAY tablets and TIVICAY PD tablets for oral suspension with or without food.
Administration
Instructions for TIVICAY PD Do not chew, cut, or crush TIVICAY PD [see Instructions for Use] . Instruct patients (or instruct caregivers) to either:
- Swallow the tablets for oral suspension whole (if more than one tablet is required, swallow one tablet at a time to reduce the risk of choking), or
- Fully disperse the tablets for oral suspension in 5 mL of drinking water (if using 1 or 3 tablets for oral suspension) or 10 mL (if using 4, 5, or 6 tablets for oral suspension) in the supplied cup; swirl the suspension so that no lumps remain. After full dispersion, administer the oral suspension within 30 minutes of mixing [see Instructions for Use] .
Contraindications
JULUCA is contraindicated in patients:
- with previous hypersensitivity reaction to dolutegravir or rilpivirine [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
- receiving dofetilide due to the potential for increased dofetilide plasma concentrations and the risk for serious and/or life-threatening events [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] .
- receiving other coadministered drugs in Table 1 that significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations [see Drug Interactions ( 7 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
Table
1.
Drugs That Are
Contraindicated with JULUCA Drug Class Contraindicated Drugs in Class Clinical Comment Antiarrhythmic Dofetilide Potential for serious and/or life-threatening events due to the potential for increased dofetilide plasma concentrations.
Anticonvulsants Carbamazepine Oxcarbazepine Phenobarbital Phenytoin
Potential for significant decreases in rilpivirine plasma concentrations due to cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A enzyme induction, which may result in loss of virologic response.
Antimycobacterials Rifampin Rifapentine
Glucocorticoid (systemic) Dexamethasone (more than a single-dose treatment)
Herbal Products St
John’s wort ( Hypericum perforatum )
Proton Pump
Inhibitors e.g., Esomeprazole Lansoprazole Omeprazole Pantoprazole Rabeprazole Potential for significant decreases in rilpivirine plasma concentrations due to gastric pH increase, which may result in loss of virologic response.
- Previous hypersensitivity reaction to dolutegravir or rilpivirine. ( 4 )
- Coadministration with dofetilide. ( 4 )
- Coadministration with drugs where significant decreases in rilpivirine plasma concentrations may occur, which may result in loss of virologic response. ( 4 )
Known Adverse Reactions
REACTIONS The following serious adverse drug reactions are discussed in other sections of the labeling:
- Hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
- Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )].
- Immune Reconstitution Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . The most common adverse reactions of moderate to severe intensity and incidence at least 2% (in those receiving TIVICAY in any one adult trial) are insomnia, fatigue, and headache. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ViiV Healthcare at 1-877-844-8872 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Clinical Trials
Experience in Adult Subjects Treatment-Naïve Subjects: The safety assessment of TIVICAY in HIV‑1–infected treatment-naïve subjects is based on the analyses of data from 2 international, multicenter, double-blind trials, SPRING-2 (ING113086) and SINGLE (ING114467) and data from the international, multicenter, open-label FLAMINGO (ING114915) trial. In SPRING-2, 822 subjects were randomized and received at least 1 dose of either TIVICAY 50 mg once daily or raltegravir 400 mg twice daily, both in combination with fixed-dose dual nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) treatment (either abacavir sulfate and lamivudine [EPZICOM] or emtricitabine/tenofovir [TRUVADA]). There were 808 subjects included in the efficacy and safety analyses.
Through
96 weeks, the rate of adverse events leading to discontinuation was 2% in both treatment arms. In SINGLE, 833 subjects were randomized and received at least 1 dose of either TIVICAY 50 mg with fixed-dose abacavir sulfate and lamivudine (EPZICOM) once daily or fixed-dose efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir (ATRIPLA) once daily (study treatment was blinded through Week 96 and open-label from Week 96 through Week 144).
Through
144 weeks, the rates of adverse events leading to discontinuation were 4% in subjects receiving TIVICAY 50 mg once daily + EPZICOM and 14% in subjects receiving ATRIPLA once daily. Treatment‑emergent adverse reactions of moderate to severe intensity observed in at least 2% of subjects in either treatment arm in SPRING-2 and SINGLE trials are provided in Table 5 . Side-by-side tabulation is to simplify presentation; direct comparisons across trials should not be made due to differing trial designs.
Table
5. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions of at Least Moderate Intensity (Grades 2 to 4) and at Least 2% Frequency in Treatment-Naïve Subjects in SPRING-2 (Week 96 Analysis) and SINGLE Trials (Week 144 Analysis) NRTI = Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor. a Includes pooled terms: rash, rash generalized, rash macular, rash maculo-papular, rash pruritic, and drug eruption.
System Organ
Class/ Preferred Term SPRING-2 SINGLE TIVICAY 50 mg Once Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 403)
Raltegravir
400 mg Twice Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 405) TIVICAY 50 mg + EPZICOM Once Daily (n = 414)
Atripla
Once Daily (n = 419)
Psychiatric
Insomnia <1% <1% 3% 3% Depression <1% <1% 1% 2% Abnormal dreams <1% <1% <1% 2% Nervous System Dizziness <1% <1% <1% 5% Headache <1% <1% 2% 2% Gastrointestinal Nausea 1% 1% <1% 3% Diarrhea <1% <1% <1% 2% Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Rash a 0 <1% <1% 6% General Disorders Fatigue <1% <1% 2% 2% Ear and Labyrinth Vertigo 0 <1% 0 2% In addition, Grade 1 insomnia was reported by 1% and less than 1% of subjects receiving TIVICAY and raltegravir, respectively, in SPRING-2; whereas in SINGLE the rates were 7% and 4% for TIVICAY and ATRIPLA, respectively. These events were not treatment limiting. In a multicenter, open-label trial (FLAMINGO), 243 subjects received TIVICAY 50 mg once daily versus 242 subjects who received darunavir 800 mg/ritonavir 100 mg once daily, both in combination with investigator-selected NRTI background regimen (either EPZICOM or TRUVADA). There were 484 subjects included in the efficacy and safety analyses.
Through
96 weeks, the rates of adverse events leading to discontinuation were 3% in subjects receiving TIVICAY and 6% in subjects receiving darunavir/ritonavir. The adverse reactions observed in FLAMINGO were generally consistent with those seen in SPRING-2 and SINGLE. Treatment-Experienced, Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor-Naïve Subjects: In an international, multicenter, double-blind trial (ING111762, SAILING), 719 HIV‑1–infected, antiretroviral treatment-experienced adults were randomized and received either TIVICAY 50 mg once daily or raltegravir 400 mg twice daily with investigator-selected background regimen consisting of up to 2 agents, including at least one fully active agent.
At
48 weeks, the rates of adverse events leading to discontinuation were 3% in subjects receiving TIVICAY 50 mg once daily + background regimen and 4% in subjects receiving raltegravir 400 mg twice daily + background regimen. The only treatment‑emergent adverse reaction of moderate to severe intensity with at least 2% frequency in either treatment group was diarrhea, 2% (6 of 354) in subjects receiving TIVICAY 50 mg once daily + background regimen and 1% (5 of 361) in subjects receiving raltegravir 400 mg twice daily + background regimen. Treatment-Experienced, Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor-Experienced Subjects: In a multicenter, open-label, single‑arm trial (ING112574, VIKING-3), 183 HIV‑1–infected, antiretroviral treatment-experienced adults with virological failure and current or historical evidence of raltegravir and/or elvitegravir resistance received TIVICAY 50 mg twice daily with the current failing background regimen for 7 days and with optimized background therapy from Day 8. The rate of adverse events leading to discontinuation was 4% of subjects at Week 48. Treatment‑emergent adverse reactions in VIKING-3 were generally similar compared with observations with the 50-mg once-daily dose in adult Phase III trials.
Virologically Suppressed
Subjects: The adverse reactions observed for TIVICAY plus rilpivirine in the Week 48 analysis of pooled data from 2 identical, international, multicenter, open-label trials (SWORD-1 and SWORD-2) of 513 HIV-1–infected, virologically suppressed subjects switching from their current antiretroviral regimen to TIVICAY plus rilpivirine, were consistent with the adverse reaction profiles and severities for the individual components when administered with other antiretroviral agents. There were no adverse reactions (Grades 2 to 4) with an incidence of at least 2% in either treatment arm at Week 48. The safety profile during the additional follow-up period through Week 148 were consistent with Week 48. The rate of adverse events leading to discontinuation through Week 48 was 4% in subjects receiving TIVICAY plus rilpivirine once daily and less than 1% in subjects who remained on their current antiretroviral regimen. In the pooled analyses, the proportion of subjects receiving TIVICAY plus rilpivirine who discontinued treatment due to an adverse event through Week 148 was 8%.
Less Common Adverse Reactions
Observed in Treatment-Naïve and Treatment-Experienced Trials: The following adverse reactions occurred in less than 2% of treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced subjects receiving TIVICAY in a combination regimen in any one trial. These events have been included because of their seriousness and assessment of potential causal relationship.
Gastrointestinal
Disorders: Abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, upper abdominal pain, vomiting.
Hepatobiliary
Disorders: Hepatitis.
Musculoskeletal
Disorders: Myositis.
Psychiatric
Disorders: Suicidal ideation, attempt, behavior, or completion. These events were observed primarily in subjects with a pre-existing history of depression or other psychiatric illness. Renal and Urinary Disorders: Renal impairment. Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Pruritus.
Laboratory
Abnormalities: Treatment-Naïve Subjects: Selected laboratory abnormalities (Grades 2 to 4) with a worsening grade from baseline and representing the worst-grade toxicity in at least 2% of subjects are presented in Table 6 . The mean change from baseline observed for selected lipid values is presented in Table 7 . Side-by-side tabulation is to simplify presentation; direct comparisons across trials should not be made due to differing trial designs.
Table
6.
Selected Laboratory
Abnormalities (Grades 2 to 4) in Treatment-Naïve Subjects in SPRING-2 (Week 96 Analysis) and SINGLE Trials (Week 144 Analysis) ALT = Alanine aminotransferase; AST = Aspartate aminotransferase; NRTI = Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor; ULN = Upper limit of normal.
Laboratory Parameter Preferred
Term SPRING-2 SINGLE TIVICAY 50 mg Once Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 403)
Raltegravir
400 mg Twice Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 405) TIVICAY 50 mg + EPZICOM Once Daily (n = 414)
Atripla
Once Daily (n = 419)
Alt
Grade 2 (>2.5-5.0 x ULN) 4% 4% 3% 5% Grade 3 to 4 (>5.0 x ULN) 2% 2% 1% <1% AST Grade 2 (>2.5-5.0 x ULN) 5% 3% 3% 4% Grade 3 to 4 (>5.0 x ULN) 3% 2% 1% 3% Total Bilirubin Grade 2 (1.6-2.5 x ULN) 3% 2% <1% <1% Grade 3 to 4 (>2.5 x ULN) <1% <1% <1% <1% Creatine kinase Grade 2 (6.0-9.9 x ULN) 2% 5% 5% 3% Grade 3 to 4 (≥10.0 x ULN) 7% 4% 7% 8% Hyperglycemia Grade 2 (126 250 mg/dL) 6% 6% 9% 6% Grade 3 (>250 mg/dL) <1% 2% 2% <1% Lipase Grade 2 (>1.5-3.0 x ULN) 7% 7% 11% 11% Grade 3 to 4 (>3.0 x ULN) 2% 5% 5% 4% Total neutrophils Grade 2 (0.75-0.99 x 10 9 ) 4% 3% 4% 5% Grade 3 to 4 (<0.75 x 10 9 ) 2% 2% 3% 3% Table 7.
Mean
Change from Baseline in Fasted Lipid Values in Treatment-Naïve Subjects in SPRING-2 (Week 96 Analysisa) and SINGLE Trials (Week 144 Analysis a ) HDL = High density lipoprotein; LDL = Low density lipoprotein; NRTI = Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor. a Subjects on lipid-lowering agents at baseline were excluded from these analyses (19 subjects in each arm in SPRING-2, and in SINGLE: TIVICAY + EPZICOM n = 30 and ATRIPLA n = 27). Ninety-four subjects initiated a lipid-lowering agent post-baseline; their last fasted on-treatment values (prior to starting the agent) were used regardless of whether they discontinued the agent (SPRING-2: TIVICAY n = 9, raltegravir n = 13; SINGLE: TIVICAY + EPZICOM n = 36, ATRIPLA n = 36).
Laboratory Parameter Preferred
Term SPRING-2 SINGLE TIVICAY 50 mg Once Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 403)
Raltegravir
400 mg Twice Daily + 2 NRTIs (n = 405) TIVICAY 50 mg + EPZICOM Once Daily (n = 414)
Atripla
Once Daily (n = 419) Cholesterol (mg/dL) 8.1 10.1 24.0
26.7 HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) 2.0 2.3 5.4
7.2 LDL cholesterol (mg/dL) 5.1 6.1 16.0
14.6 Triglycerides (mg/dL) 6.7 6.6 13.6
31.9 Laboratory abnormalities observed in the FLAMINGO trial were generally consistent with observations in SPRING-2 and SINGLE. Treatment-Experienced, Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor-Naïve Subjects: Laboratory abnormalities observed in SAILING were generally similar compared with observations seen in the treatment-naïve (SPRING-2 and SINGLE) trials. Treatment-Experienced, Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor-Experienced Subjects: The most common treatment-emergent laboratory abnormalities (greater than 5% for Grades 2 to 4 combined) observed in VIKING-3 at Week 48 were elevated ALT (9%), AST (8%), cholesterol (10%), creatine kinase (6%), hyperglycemia (14%), and lipase (10%). Two percent (4 of 183) of subjects had a Grade 3 to 4 treatment-emergent hematology laboratory abnormality, with neutropenia (2% [3 of 183]) being the most frequently reported.
Virologically Suppressed
Adults: Laboratory abnormalities observed in SWORD-1 and SWORD-2 were generally similar compared with observations seen in the other Phase III trials. Hepatitis B and/or Hepatitis C Virus Co-infection: In Phase III trials, subjects with hepatitis B and/or C virus co-infection were permitted to enroll provided that baseline liver chemistry tests did not exceed 5 times the upper limit of normal. Overall, the safety profile in subjects with hepatitis B and/or C virus co-infection was similar to that observed in subjects without hepatitis B or C co-infection, although the rates of AST and ALT abnormalities were higher in the subgroup with hepatitis B and/or C virus co-infection for all treatment groups.
Grades
2 to 4 ALT abnormalities in hepatitis B and/or C co-infected compared with HIV mono-infected subjects receiving TIVICAY were observed in 18% vs. 3% with the 50-mg once-daily dose and 13% vs. 8% with the 50-mg twice-daily dose. Liver chemistry elevations consistent with immune reconstitution syndrome were observed in some subjects with hepatitis B and/or C at the start of therapy with TIVICAY, particularly in the setting where anti-hepatitis therapy was withdrawn [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Changes in Serum Creatinine: Dolutegravir has been shown to increase serum creatinine due to inhibition of tubular secretion of creatinine without affecting renal glomerular function [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Increases in serum creatinine occurred within the first 4 weeks of treatment and remained stable through 96 weeks. In treatment-naïve subjects, a mean change from baseline of 0.15 mg/dL (range: -0.32 mg/dL to 0.65 mg/dL) was observed after 96 weeks of treatment. Creatinine increases were comparable by background NRTIs and were similar in treatment-experienced subjects.
Clinical Trials
Experience in Pediatric Subjects The safety and pharmacokinetics of TIVICAY and TIVICAY PD in HIV-1–infected pediatric subjects aged at least 4 weeks and weighing at least 3 kg was evaluated in the IMPAACT P1093 trial and 2 weight-band-based pharmacokinetic substudies of the ODYSSEY trial [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Overall, the safety data in these pediatric studies were similar to those seen in adults, and there was no clinically significant difference in dolutegravir exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . IMPAACT P1093 is an ongoing, multicenter, open-label, non-comparative trial of HIV‑1–infected pediatric subjects aged 4 weeks to less than 18 years [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . The safety analysis based on subjects (n = 75) who received the recommended dose (determined by weight and age) through Week 24 showed that 11% of subjects experienced drug-related clinical adverse reactions. The only Grade 1 to 2 drug-related clinical adverse reactions reported by more than one subject was immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) (n = 2). There were no Grade 3 or 4 drug-related adverse reactions reported. No adverse reactions led to discontinuation.
The Grade
3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities reported in more than one subject were decreased neutrophil count (n = 11), decreased blood bicarbonate (n = 4), decreased hemoglobin (n = 3), increased lipase (n = 2), and increased blood potassium (n = 2). These laboratory events were not considered to be drug-related. Median laboratory values were similar at baseline and Week 24. Changes in median serum creatinine were similar to those observed in adults.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience In addition to adverse reactions reported from clinical trials, the following adverse reactions have been identified during postmarketing use. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Blood and Lymphatic Systems Sideroblastic anemia.
Hepatobiliary Disorders
Acute liver failure, hepatotoxicity.
Investigations
Weight increased.
Musculoskeletal
Arthralgia, myalgia.
Psychiatric
Anxiety.
FDA Boxed Warning
WARNING: PATIENTS CO-INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS B VIRUS (HBV) AND HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV-1): EMERGENCE OF LAMIVUDINE-RESISTANT HBV AND EXACERBATIONS OF HBV All patients with HIV-1 should be tested for the presence of HBV prior to or when initiating DOVATO. Emergence of lamivudine-resistant HBV variants associated with lamivudine-containing antiretroviral regimens has been reported. If DOVATO is used in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV, additional treatment should be considered for appropriate treatment of chronic HBV; otherwise, consider an alternative regimen. Severe acute exacerbations of HBV have been reported in patients who are co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV and have discontinued lamivudine, a component of DOVATO. Closely monitor hepatic function in these patients and, if appropriate, initiate anti-HBV treatment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . WARNING: PATIENTS CO-INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS B VIRUS (HBV) AND HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV-1): EMERGENCE OF LAMIVUDINE-RESISTANT HBV AND EXACERBATIONS OF HBV See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
- All patients with HIV-1 should be tested for the presence of HBV prior to or when initiating DOVATO. Emergence of lamivudine-resistant HBV variants associated with lamivudine-containing antiretroviral regimens has been reported. If DOVATO is used in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV, additional treatment should be considered for appropriate treatment of chronic HBV; otherwise, consider an alternative regimen.
- Severe acute exacerbations of HBV have been reported in patients who are co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV and have discontinued lamivudine, a component of DOVATO. Closely monitor hepatic function in these patients and, if appropriate, initiate anti-HBV treatment. ( 5.1 )
Warnings
AND PRECAUTIONS
- Hypersensitivity reactions characterized by rash, constitutional findings, and sometimes organ dysfunction, including liver injury, have been reported with dolutegravir. Discontinue DOVATO immediately if signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions develop, as a delay in stopping treatment may result in a life-threatening reaction. ( 5.2 )
- Hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients receiving a dolutegravir-containing regimen. Patients with underlying hepatitis B or C may be at increased risk for worsening or development of transaminase elevations with DOVATO. Monitoring for hepatotoxicity is recommended. ( 5.3 )
- Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues. ( 5.4 )
- Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy. ( 5.6 )
5.1 Patients Co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV: Emergence of Lamivudine-Resistant HBV and the Risk of Posttreatment Exacerbations of HBV All patients with HIV-1 should be tested for the presence of HBV prior to or when initiating DOVATO. Emergence of Lamivudine-Resistant HBV Safety and efficacy of lamivudine have not been established for treatment of chronic HBV in subjects dually infected with HIV-1 and HBV. Emergence of HBV variants associated with resistance to lamivudine has been reported in HIV‑1–infected subjects who have received lamivudine‑containing antiretroviral regimens in the presence of concurrent infection with HBV. If a decision is made to administer DOVATO to patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV, additional treatment should be considered for appropriate treatment of chronic HBV; otherwise, consider an alternative regimen.
Severe Acute
Exacerbations of HBV in Patients Co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV Severe acute exacerbations of HBV have been reported in patients who are co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV and have discontinued products containing lamivudine, and may occur with discontinuation of DOVATO. Patients who are co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV who discontinue DOVATO should be closely monitored with both clinical and laboratory follow-up for at least several months after stopping treatment with DOVATO. If appropriate, initiation of anti-HBV therapy may be warranted, especially in patients with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis, since posttreatment exacerbation of hepatitis may lead to hepatic decompensation and liver failure.
5.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with the use of dolutegravir, a component of DOVATO, and were characterized by rash, constitutional findings, and sometimes organ dysfunction, including liver injury. These events were reported in <1% of subjects receiving dolutegravir in Phase 3 clinical trials. Discontinue DOVATO immediately if signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions develop (including, but not limited to, severe rash or rash accompanied by fever, general malaise, fatigue, muscle or joint aches, blisters or peeling of the skin, oral blisters or lesions, conjunctivitis, facial edema, hepatitis, eosinophilia, angioedema, difficulty breathing). Clinical status, including liver aminotransferases, should be monitored and appropriate therapy initiated. Delay in stopping treatment with DOVATO or other suspect agents after the onset of hypersensitivity may result in a life-threatening reaction <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications ( 4 )]</span> .
5.3 Hepatotoxicity Hepatic adverse events have been reported in patients receiving a dolutegravir-containing regimen <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]</span> . Patients with underlying hepatitis B or C may be at increased risk for worsening or development of transaminase elevations with use of DOVATO <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]</span> . In some cases, the elevations in transaminases were consistent with immune reconstitution syndrome or HBV reactivation particularly in the setting where anti-hepatitis therapy was withdrawn. Cases of hepatic toxicity, including elevated serum liver biochemistries, hepatitis, and acute liver failure, have also been reported in patients receiving a dolutegravir-containing regimen who had no pre-existing hepatic disease or other identifiable risk factors. Drug-induced liver injury leading to liver transplant has been reported with TRIUMEQ (abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine). Monitoring for hepatotoxicity is recommended.
5.4 Lactic Acidosis and Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues, including lamivudine (a component of DOVATO). A majority of these cases have been in women. Female sex and obesity may be risk factors for the development of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis in patients treated with antiretroviral nucleoside analogues. Monitor closely when administering DOVATO to any patient with known risk factors for liver disease. Treatment with DOVATO should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity, which may include hepatomegaly and steatosis even in the absence of marked transaminase elevations.
5.5 Risk of Adverse Reactions or Loss of Virologic Response Due to Drug Interactions The coadministration of DOVATO and other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions, some of which may lead to <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.4 )]</span> :
- Loss of therapeutic effect of DOVATO and possible development of resistance.
- Possible clinically significant adverse reactions from greater exposures of coadministered drugs.
See Table
5 for steps to prevent or manage these possible and known significant drug interactions, including dosing recommendations. Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during therapy with DOVATO, review coadministered drugs during therapy with DOVATO, and monitor for the adverse reactions associated with the coadministered drugs.
5.6 Immune Reconstitution Syndrome Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy, including DOVATO. During the initial phase of combination antiretroviral treatment, patients whose immune systems respond may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (such as Mycobacterium avium infection, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia [PCP], or tuberculosis), which may necessitate further evaluation and treatment. Autoimmune disorders (such as Graves’ disease, polymyositis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome) have also been reported to occur in the setting of immune reconstitution; however, the time to onset is more variable and can occur many months after initiation of treatment.
Drug Interactions
INTERACTIONS
- Refer to the full prescribing information for important drug interactions with TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD. ( 4 , 7 )
- Drugs that are metabolic inducers may decrease the plasma concentrations of dolutegravir. ( 7.2 , 7.3 )
- TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD should be taken 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking cation-containing antacids or laxatives, sucralfate, oral supplements containing iron or calcium, or buffered medications. When taken with food, TIVICAY and supplements containing calcium or iron can be taken at the same time. ( 7.3 )
7.1 Effect of Dolutegravir on the Pharmacokinetics of Other Agents In vitro, dolutegravir inhibited the renal organic cation transporters, OCT2 (IC 50 = 1.93 microM) and multidrug and toxin extrusion transporter (MATE) 1 (IC 50 = 6.34 microM). In vivo, dolutegravir inhibits tubular secretion of creatinine by inhibiting OCT2 and potentially MATE1. Dolutegravir may increase plasma concentrations of drugs eliminated via OCT2 or MATE1 (dofetilide, dalfampridine, and metformin, Table 8 ) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )]</span> . In vitro, dolutegravir inhibited the basolateral renal transporters, organic anion transporter (OAT) 1 (IC 50 = 2.12 microM) and OAT3 (IC 50 = 1.97 microM). However, in vivo, dolutegravir did not alter the plasma concentrations of tenofovir or para-amino hippurate, substrates of OAT1 and OAT3. In vitro, dolutegravir did not inhibit (IC 50 greater than 50 microM) the following: cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A, uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1, UGT2B7, P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), bile salt export pump (BSEP), organic anion transporter polypeptide (OATP)1B1, OATP1B3, OCT1, multidrug resistance protein (MRP)2, or MRP4. In vitro, dolutegravir did not induce CYP1A2, CYP2B6, or CYP3A4. Based on these data and the results of drug interaction trials, dolutegravir is not expected to affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs that are substrates of these enzymes or transporters.
7.2 Effect of Other Agents on the Pharmacokinetics of Dolutegravir Dolutegravir is metabolized by UGT1A1 with some contribution from CYP3A. Dolutegravir is also a substrate of UGT1A3, UGT1A9, BCRP, and P-gp in vitro. Drugs that induce those enzymes and transporters may decrease dolutegravir plasma concentration and reduce the therapeutic effect of dolutegravir. Coadministration of dolutegravir and other drugs that inhibit these enzymes may increase dolutegravir plasma concentration. Etravirine significantly reduced plasma concentrations of dolutegravir, but the effect of etravirine was mitigated by coadministration of lopinavir/ritonavir or darunavir/ritonavir and is expected to be mitigated by atazanavir/ritonavir ( Table 8 ) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]</span> . In vitro, dolutegravir was not a substrate of OATP1B1 or OATP1B3.
7.3 Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Table 8 provides clinical recommendations as a result of drug interactions with TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD. These recommendations are based on either drug interaction trials or predicted interactions due to the expected magnitude of interaction and potential for serious adverse events or loss of efficacy [ s ee Dosage and Administration ( 2 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )].
Table
8. Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions: Alterations in Dose or Regimen May Be Recommended Based on Drug Interaction Trials or Predicted Interactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] INSTI = integrase strand transfer inhibitor. a See Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )
Table
11 or Table 12 for magnitude of interaction. b The lower dolutegravir exposures observed in INSTI-experienced patients (with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] ) upon coadministration with certain inducers may result in loss of therapeutic effect and development of resistance to TIVICAY or other coadministered antiretroviral agents.
Concomitant Drug
Class: Drug Name Effect on Concentration of Dolutegravir and/or Concomitant Drug Clinical Comment HIV-1 Antiviral Agents Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor: Etravirine a ↓Dolutegravir Use of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD with etravirine without coadministration of atazanavir/ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, or lopinavir/ritonavir is not recommended. Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor: Efavirenz a ↓Dolutegravir Adjust dose of TIVICAY to twice daily for treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced, INSTI-naïve adult patients. In pediatric patients, increase the weight-based dose of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD to twice daily (Tables 2 , 3 , and 4 ). Use alternative combinations that do not include metabolic inducers where possible for INSTI-experienced patients with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance. b Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor: Nevirapine ↓Dolutegravir Avoid coadministration with nevirapine because there are insufficient data to make dosing recommendations. Protease inhibitors: Fosamprenavir/ritonavir a Tipranavir/ritonavir a ↓Dolutegravir Adjust dose of TIVICAY to twice daily for treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced, INSTI-naïve adult patients. In pediatric patients, increase the weight-based dose of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD to twice daily (Tables 2 , 3 , and 4 ). Use alternative combinations that do not include metabolic inducers where possible for INSTI-experienced patients with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance. b Other Agents Dofetilide ↑Dofetilide Coadministration is contraindicated with TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Carbamazepine a ↓Dolutegravir Adjust dose of TIVICAY to twice daily in treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced, INSTI-naïve adult patients. In pediatric patients, increase the weight-based dose of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD to twice daily (Tables 2 , 3 , and 4 ). Use alternative treatment that does not include carbamazepine where possible for INSTI-experienced patients with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance. b Oxcarbazepine Phenytoin Phenobarbital St. John’s wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) ↓Dolutegravir Avoid coadministration with TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD because there are insufficient data to make dosing recommendations. Medications containing polyvalent cations (e.g., Mg or Al): Cation-containing antacids a or laxatives Sucralfate Buffered medications ↓Dolutegravir Administer TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking medications containing polyvalent cations. Oral calcium or iron supplements, including multivitamins containing calcium or iron a ↓Dolutegravir When taken with food, TIVICAY and supplements or multivitamins containing calcium or iron can be taken at the same time. Under fasting conditions, TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD should be taken 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking supplements containing calcium or iron. Potassium channel blocker: Dalfampridine ↑Dalfampridine Elevated levels of dalfampridine increase the risk of seizures. The potential benefits of taking dalfampridine concurrently with TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD should be considered against the risk of seizures in these patients. Metformin ↑Metformin Refer to the prescribing information for metformin for assessing the benefit and risk of concomitant use of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD and metformin. Rifampin a ↓Dolutegravir Adjust dose of TIVICAY to twice daily for treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced, INSTI-naïve adult patients. In pediatric patients, increase the weight-based dose of TIVICAY or TIVICAY PD to twice daily (Tables 2 , 3 , and 4 ). Use alternatives to rifampin where possible for INSTI-experienced patients with certain INSTI-associated resistance substitutions or clinically suspected INSTI resistance. b