An Overview of Selzentry (Maraviroc, Celsentri)

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Brand Name:

Selzentry
Other Name(s): Celsentri, MVC, UK-427,857

Drug Class: Entry and Fusion Inhibitors

Maraviroc, also known as Selzentry, is a type of medicine called an entry inhibitor. Entry inhibitors work by blocking HIV from entering human cells.

Indications and Usage

Maraviroc received accelerated approval on August 6, 2007, and traditional approval on November 25, 2008, by the FDA for the treatment of CCR5-tropic HIV-1 in treatment-experienced adults, combined with other antiretroviral treatment. On November 20, 2009, the FDA approved the expanded use of maraviroc to include adults with the CCR5-tropic HIV-1 virus who have not received prior antiretroviral treatment. This medicine does not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS and does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.

Dosage Form/Administration

Maraviroc comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth. Maraviroc may be taken with or without food. Maraviroc is available in 150-mg and 300-mg tablets and should be given 300 mg twice daily in most individuals. Some individuals, such as those taking drugs that affect levels of maraviroc or those with kidney failure, require different doses of maraviroc.

Recommended Daily Dose

The recommended dose is 300 mg twice daily for most individuals. However, dosing may change depending on what other medications an individual is taking. Patients should always take maraviroc as prescribed by their doctors.

Contraindications

Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects

Along with its desired effects, maraviroc may cause some unwanted effects. The most common side effects seen in studies so far include cough, fever, dizziness, headache, lowered blood pressure, nausea, and bladder irritation. Two Phase III studies reported possible liver problems and cardiac events, an increased risk for some infections, and a slight increase in cholesterol levels. Itchiness, rash, and abnormal blood levels may precede liver problems. If these issues are experienced, a doctor should be seen immediately and discontinuation of maraviroc should be considered.

Drug Interactions

Drug interaction studies show changes in maraviroc exposure when given with other anti-HIV medications, including efavirenz and lopinavir/ritonavir. These changes require different doses of maraviroc to be used.A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials

Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Maraviroc.

Manufacturer Information

Maraviroc
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985

Selzentry
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985