Idvynso (doravirine/islatravir) is commonly used to treat HIV in certain people. Like most medicines, Idvynso may cause side effects. Some are more common than others.
Keep reading to learn about potential side effects of Idvynso, what you can do to prevent or manage them, and when to contact your health care provider.
This article does not include all possible side effects of Idvynso. Tell your health care provider if you have side effects that are ongoing or bother you, even if they are not listed.
Common Idvynso Side Effects
The most common side effects reported in clinical studies include:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Swollen belly
- Headache
- Weight gain
In most cases, these side effects are temporary and often improve on their own. However, contact your health care provider if you experience symptoms that feel severe or last longer than a few days. Do not stop taking Idvynso unless your provider recommends it.
Serious Side Effects of Idvynso
Serious Idvynso side effects are less common but may include:
- Severe skin reactions
- Serious allergic reactions
If you think you may be having a serious side effect, contact your health care provider right away. In some cases, severe symptoms may require urgent medical care. Your provider can look at your symptoms and explain what steps to take next.
The sections below explain potential Idvynso side effects and what you can do to help reduce or get rid of them.
Tips for Managing Idvynso Side Effects
In clinical trials of Idvynso, most people tolerated the medicine well. Most people who had at least one side effect while taking Idvynso said the side effects were mild or moderate.
Some side effects can be managed with simple strategies.
1. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of Idvynso. Possible symptoms include loose or watery stools, stomach cramps, and an urgent need to use the bathroom.
Mild diarrhea often improves on its own within a few days. You may be able to manage it at home with the following tips:
- Eat bland foods, such as rice, bananas, or toast.
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or high-fiber foods that may worsen symptoms.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Before trying over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for diarrhea, check with your health care provider or pharmacist to make sure they are safe for you.
Contact your health care provider if diarrhea is severe, does not improve, or causes signs of dehydration such as reduced urination or dizziness.
2. Dizziness
Dizziness is another possible side effect of Idvynso. Symptoms may include feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
To help reduce dizziness:
- Stand up slowly from sitting or lying down.
- If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down right away.
- Stay well hydrated, as dehydration may contribute to dizziness.
Contact your health care provider if dizziness is frequent, severe, or does not go away. They may review other factors that may be contributing.
3. Headache
Headache is a commonly reported side effect of Idvynso. This side effect was reported by up to 2% of people taking it in studies.
Symptoms may include mild-to-moderate head pain or pressure.
To help manage headaches:
- Rest in a quiet, dark room if needed.
- Drink enough fluids throughout the day.
- Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing.
An OTC pain reliever may help ease headache pain, but check with your health care provider or pharmacist first to make sure it is safe for you.
Contact your health care provider if headaches are severe, happen often, or do not improve.
4. Weight gain
Increased body weight has been reported in some people taking Idvynso. However, weight changes are common with many HIV medicines, not just Idvynso.
Weight changes with Idvynso are usually modest. In one study, people taking Idvynso gained 0.94 kg (around 2.1 pounds) after 48 weeks, while those who stayed on their previous treatment had a small weight loss of 0.15 kg (about 0.3 pounds).
It is also important to know that weight changes can happen when starting or switching HIV medicines in general.
To help manage weight gain during HIV treatment:
- Follow a nutritious diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Limit foods that are high in added sugars or saturated fat.
- Stay physically active with regular movement, such as walking or other moderate activity, based on your health care provider’s advice.
Talk to your health care provider if you notice ongoing or unexpected weight gain. They can help review your treatment history, evaluate possible causes, and suggest next steps. In some cases, they may recommend additional support, such as working with a registered dietitian.
5. Tiredness
Another common side effect of Idvynso is fatigue, including feelings of tiredness or weakness. These symptoms may improve over time as your body gets used to the medicine, but feeling tired can also be a common symptom of HIV.
Some of the same healthy habits used to manage weight, such as balanced nutrition and regular activity, may also help support energy levels.
Less commonly, Idvynso may cause trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. It may also cause unusual dreams. These side effects were reported by less than 2% of people who took Idvynso in studies.
Contact your health care provider if you’re not sleeping well after switching to Idvynso. They may suggest changes to your treatment plan.
6. Severe skin reactions
Serious skin reactions have been reported with medicines that contain doravirine, one of the components of Idvynso. These reactions are rare but can be life-threatening.
In some cases, the skin may blister, peel, or become very painful. You may also notice sores in your mouth, eyes, or genitals. These symptoms can be part of severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).
Another type of reaction may cause a rash along with other symptoms, such as fever, tiredness, or swelling. This may affect different parts of your body and may require urgent medical care.
Contact your health care provider right away if you get a rash while taking Idvynso.
Reducing Your Risk of Idvynso Side Effects
You can reduce your risk of side effects by:
- Taking Idvynso exactly as prescribed
- Keeping track of any new or changing symptoms and sharing them with your health care provider
- Telling your health care provider about side effects that do not improve or start to interfere with daily activities
Your health care provider can help you decide whether changes to your treatment plan are needed.
