Apretude 30 mg Film Coated Tablets Tablet (Cabotegravir) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Cabotegravir is an HIV medication that works by blocking an enzyme called integrase, which the HIV virus needs to multiply in your body. It is available in Nigeria under the brand name Apretude, either as tablets or as a long-acting injection.

What is it used for?

Prevention of HIV infection (PrEP — pre-exposure prophylaxis)treatment of HIV when used together with other HIV medicines

Browse by condition

HIV & AIDS

How it works

Inhibits HIV integrase enzyme, preventing integration of viral DNA into the host genome and blocking viral replication. When used as PrEP, it establishes protective concentrations in blood and tissues to prevent establishment of infection following HIV exposure.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

Quick Interaction Check

Is Cabotegravir safe to take with another drug?

Check with multiple drugs →

Explore this drug

How to take this drug

For HIV prevention with tablets: Take one 30 mg tablet once daily by mouth, with or without food. The tablets are usually taken for about one month before switching to the long-acting injection. For the injection: Your healthcare provider will give you a 600 mg injection into your buttock muscle — first two injections are one month apart, then every two months after that. Do not try to inject yourself at home.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a tablet dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule — do not double up. If you miss an injection appointment, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule, because gaps in protection can increase your risk of getting HIV.

What to watch out for

Only get Apretude from a licensed pharmacy or hospital — do not buy from roadside sellers or unverified online stores, as fake HIV medicines are dangerous. If you are using cabotegravir for HIV prevention, you must get tested for HIV regularly because using it while unknowingly HIV-positive can lead to drug resistance. Do not share this medication with others even if they also want HIV protection — each person needs their own prescription and proper medical follow-up.

Common Side Effects

Pain
swelling
or hardness at the injection site (very common and can last for days)
headache
feeling tired
fever
stomach upset or nausea

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction — rash
swelling of the face or throat
difficulty breathing (go to the hospital immediately). Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of eyes or skin
dark urine
or severe stomach pain — see a doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Rifampicin (commonly used for tuberculosis treatment in Nigeria) greatly reduces how well cabotegravir works — do not use them together. Carbamazepine and phenytoin (used for seizures/convulsions) can also reduce its effectiveness. Always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies.

Check your specific combination

Is it safe to take Cabotegravir with your other drugs?

Check →

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Cabotegravir is not well-studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women — consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to cabotegravir or any of its ingredients
people currently taking rifampicin or other strong enzyme-inducing drugs
anyone who already has HIV (cabotegravir alone is not enough to treat HIV and using it alone could cause drug resistance).

How to Store

Store tablets at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. In hot Nigerian weather, do not leave the medicine in your car or near a window. Keep in a cool, dry place and always out of the reach of children. The injection is stored and handled by your healthcare provider.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Apretude 30 mg Film Coated Tablets