Key takeaways
Etravirine (Intelence) and Rilpivirine (Edurant) are both antiretroviral medications used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Etravirine (Intelence) is available in both brand-name and generic forms, while Rilpivirine (Edurant) is only available as a brand-name medication. Etravirine (Intelence) is typically taken twice daily after meals, whereas Rilpivirine (Edurant) is taken once daily with a meal, making it more convenient for those with busy schedules. Etravirine (Intelence) is used for people who have developed resistance to other HIV medications, while Rilpivirine (Edurant) is for those who haven't taken HIV medications before and have a viral load of less than 100,000 copies/mL. Both medications can cause severe skin reactions and liver problems, but Rilpivirine (Edurant) also has a risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, Etravirine (Intelence) can be used in children as young as 2 years old, while Rilpivirine (Edurant) is only approved for children 2 years and older who weigh at least 30 pounds.
