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.
