Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Prezista (darunavir) and Triumeq (abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine) are both medications used to treat HIV infections, but they belong to different classes and have distinct characteristics. Prezista is a protease inhibitor, which works by blocking a protein called protease to prevent the virus from making copies of itself. It is typically taken with a booster like ritonavir to enhance its effectiveness. Triumeq, on the other hand, is a combination of three antiretrovirals: abacavir and lamivudine, which are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), and dolutegravir, an integrase inhibitor. This combination blocks enzymes that the virus needs to replicate. Prezista is available as an oral tablet or suspension and is taken once daily with food, while Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen taken once daily, with or without food. Triumeq requires genetic testing before starting to check for a risk of serious allergic reactions. Common side effects of Prezista include diarrhea and rash, while Triumeq can cause higher blood sugar levels and trouble sleeping. Both medications interact with many other drugs, so it's important to discuss all medications you're taking with your prescriber and pharmacist. Prezista contains a sulfa component, so talk to your prescriber if you have a sulfa allergy.
Prezista (darunavir)
Triumeq
Prezista (darunavir)
Triumeq
Summary of Prezista vs. Triumeq
Summary for HIV ARV
Prescription only
Prezista (darunavir) is an oral tablet or suspension that's used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It's often taken in combination with a "booster," like ritonavir (Norvir), to help Prezista (darunavir) work better against the virus. Rarely, this medication can cause a skin rash within the first month of treatment, but it typically goes away on its own. Lastly, let your provider know if you have a history of sulfa allergy since Prezista (darunavir) contains a "sulfa" component.
Summary for HIV ARV
Prescription only
Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.
Indications of Prezista vs. Triumeq
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection in people aged 3 years and older
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 22 pounds)
Pros and Cons of Prezista vs. Triumeq
Pros and Const for HIV ARV
Pros
•Taken once a day by mouth
•Available as an oral suspension, so it's convenient if you have trouble swallowing pills
•Safe to take during pregnancy
Cons
•Requires regular blood work and lab tests
•Interacts with many medications
•Must be used carefully in people with sulfa allergies
Pros and Const for HIV ARV
Pros
•Only taken once a day for complete HIV treatment
•Combines three medications into one pill for convenience
•Can be taken with or without food
•Available for adults and children at or over 22 lbs
Cons
•Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems