Skip to main content

Rilpivirine (Monograph)

Brand name: Edurant
Drug class: HIV Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 26, 2023. Written by ASHP.

Introduction

Antiretroviral; HIV nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI).1 4 8

Uses for Rilpivirine

Treatment of HIV Infection

Treatment of HIV-1 infection in treatment-naïve and previously treated [off-label] adults and adolescents ≥12 years of age and weighing ≥35 kg with baseline plasma HIV-1 RNA levels ≤100,000 copies/mL;1 2 3 10 11 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 200 201 202 used in conjunction with other antiretrovirals (ARVs). 1 Rilpivirine is included in various ARV regimens recommended in guidelines for treatment of HIV in adults and adolescents, pediatric patients, and pregnant patients.200 201 202 Fixed dose combinations containing rilpivirine and dolutegravir (Juluca), rilpivirine and cabotegravir (Cabenuva), rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (DF, Complera), and rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (Odefsey) are used in the treatment of HIV infection.13 14 233 244 See the full prescribing information for use of each of these combination products.

Short-term treatment of HIV-1 infection, in combination with oral cabotegravir, in adults and adolescents ≥12 years of age and weighing ≥35 kg who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL) on a stable regimen with no history of treatment failure and with no known or suspected resistance to either cabotegravir or rilpivirine.1 14 17 19 18 20 22 21 23

Postexposure Prophylaxis following Occupational Exposure to HIV (PEP)

Postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection following occupational exposure [off-label] (PEP) in health-care personnel and others exposed via percutaneous injury (e.g., needlestick, cut with sharp object) or mucous membrane or nonintact skin (e.g., chapped, abraded, dermatitis) contact with blood, tissue, or other body fluids that might contain HIV.199 Used in conjunction with other ARVs.199 Rilpivirine in combination with 2 NRTIs is among several alternative regimens recommended in guidelines for PEP when the preferred regimen cannot be used.199

Postexposure Prophylaxis following Nonoccupational Exposure to HIV (nPEP)

Postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection following nonoccupational exposure [off-label] (nPEP) in individuals exposed to blood, genital secretions, or other potentially infectious body fluids that might contain HIV when the exposure represents a substantial risk for HIV transmission.32 31 198 Used in conjunction with other ARVs.198 Rilpivirine in combination with 2 NRTIs is among several alternative regimens recommended in guidelines for nPEP.198 A fixed dose combination containing rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Complera) is used for nPEP in this setting.31 32 198 See the full prescribing information for use of Complera.233

Rilpivirine Dosage and Administration

General

Pretreatment Screening

Patient Monitoring

Dispensing and Administration Precautions

Administration

Oral Administration

Available as oral tablets.1

Administer orally once daily with a meal.1 Use in conjunction with other ARVs.1

Systemic exposure substantially decreased if rilpivirine given on empty stomach or with only a protein-rich nutritional drink.1

Do not use single-entity rilpivirine (Edurant) and emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir alafenamide concomitantly.1 244

Do not use single-entity rilpivirine (Edurant) and emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF (Complera) concomitantly, unless needed for adjustment of rilpivirine dosage (e.g., when fixed combination used concomitantly with rifabutin).1 233

Fixed Combinations Containing Rilpivirine

Rilpivirine hydrochloride is commercially available in fixed-combination tablets containing dolutegravir sodium and rilpivirine (Juluca); emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir alafenamide (Odefsey); and emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Complera).13 233 244 Rilpivirine is also commercially available as an extended-release injectable suspension kit containing copackaged cabotegravir and rilpivirine (Cabenuva).14 See the full prescribing information for administration of each of these combination products.13 14 233 244

Dosage

Available as rilpivirine hydrochloride;1 dosage expressed in terms of rilpivirine.1

Pediatric Patients

Treatment of HIV Infection in Antiretroviral-naïve Pediatric Patients
Oral

Adolescents ≥12 years of age weighing ≥35 kg: 25 mg once daily.1

Treatment of HIV Infection in Antiretroviral-experienced Pediatric Patients in Combination with Cabotegravir
Oral

Adolescents ≥12 years of age weighing ≥35 kg: 25 mg once daily.1

Take in combination with cabotegravir (Vocabria) 30 mg once daily.1 17

Use oral lead-in therapy with rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) for 1 month (at least 28 days) to assess rilpivirine tolerability prior to cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) injections.1 14 17

Administer last oral dose on same day cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) injection dosing initiated.1 14 17

If scheduled monthly injection of cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) is planned to be missed by >7 days, daily oral rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) can be taken together for up to 2 months to replace missed injections.1 14 17

Recommended oral daily dose is one 25-mg tablet of rilpivirine and one 30-mg tablet of cabotegravir.1 Initiate first dose of oral therapy approximately same time as planned missed injection; continue until day injection dosing is restarted.1 14 17 For durations longer than 2 months, use alternative oral regimen.1 14 17

If scheduled every-2-month injection of cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) is planned to be missed by >7 days, daily oral rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) can be taken together for up to 2 months to replace 1 missed scheduled every-2-month injection.1 14

Recommended oral daily dose is one 25-mg tablet of rilpivirine and one 30-mg tablet of cabotegravir.1 Initiate first dose of oral therapy approximately same time as planned missed injection; continue until day injection dosing is restarted.1 14 17 For durations longer than 2 months, use alternative oral regimen.1 14 17

Treatment of HIV Infection in Pediatric Patients Receiving Rifabutin
Oral

Adolescents ≥12 years of age weighing ≥35 kg: 50 mg once daily.1 When rifabutin coadministration is stopped, decrease rilpivirine dose to 25 mg once daily.1

Adults

Treatment of HIV Infection in Antiretroviral-naïve Adults
Oral

25 mg once daily.1

Treatment of HIV Infection in Antiretroviral-experienced Adults in Combination with Cabotegravir
Oral

25 mg once daily.1

Take in combination with cabotegravir (Vocabria) 30 mg once daily.1 17

Use oral lead-in therapy with rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) for 1 month (at least 28 days) to assess rilpivirine tolerability prior to cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) injections.1 14 17

Administer last oral dose on same day cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) injection dosing initiated.1 14 17

If scheduled monthly injection of cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) is planned to be missed by >7 days, daily oral rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) can be taken together for up to 2 months to replace missed injections.1 14 17

Recommended oral daily dose is one 25-mg tablet of rilpivirine and one 30-mg tablet of cabotegravir.1 Initiate first dose of oral therapy approximately same time as planned missed injection; continue until day injection dosing is restarted.1 14 17 For durations longer than 2 months, use alternative oral regimen.1 14 17

If scheduled every-2-month injection of cabotegravir/rilpivirine (Cabenuva) is planned to be missed by >7 days, daily oral rilpivirine (Edurant) and cabotegravir (Vocabria) can be taken together for up to 2 months to replace 1 missed scheduled every-2-month injection.1 14

Recommended oral daily dose is one 25-mg tablet of rilpivirine and one 30-mg tablet of cabotegravir.1 Initiate first dose of oral therapy approximately same time as planned missed injection; continue until day injection dosing is restarted.1 14 17 For durations longer than 2 months, use alternative oral regimen.1 14 17

Treatment of HIV Infection in Adults Receiving Rifabutin
Oral

50 mg once daily.1 When rifabutin coadministration is stopped, decrease rilpivirine dose to 25 mg once daily.1

Postexposure Prophylaxis following Occupational Exposure to HIV (PEP)† [off-label]
Oral

25 mg once daily.199 Use in conjunction with 2 NRTIs .199

Initiate PEP as soon as possible following occupational exposure to HIV (preferably within hours);199 continue for 4 weeks, if tolerated.199

Postexposure Prophylaxis following Nonoccupational Exposure to HIV (nPEP)† [off-label]
Oral

Emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF (Complera): 1 tablet (200 mg of emtricitabine, 25 mg of rilpivirine, and 300 mg of tenofovir DF) once daily.198 Use as a complete regimen for nPEP.198

Initiate nPEP as soon as possible (within 72 hours) following nonoccupational exposure that represents a substantial risk for HIV transmission and continue for 28 days.198

nPEP not recommended if exposed individual seeks care >72 hours after exposure.198

Special Populations

Hepatic Impairment

Administer usual dosage in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A or B); not studied in those with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C).1

Renal Impairment

Administer usual dosage in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment.1 Manufacturer makes no specific dosage recommendations for those with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease (ESRD); use with caution.1

Geriatric Patients

Select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.1

Cautions for Rilpivirine

Contraindications

Warnings/Precautions

Skin and Hypersensitivity Reactions

Severe skin and hypersensitivity reactions, including drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), reported.1 Some skin reactions were accompanied by constitutional symptoms such as fever; others were associated with organ dysfunction, including elevated hepatic enzyme serum concentrations.1 Rash generally was grade 1 or 2 and occurred in the first 4–6 weeks of therapy.1

Immediately discontinue rilpivirine if signs or symptoms of severe skin or hypersensitivity reactions develop (e.g., severe rash or rash accompanied by fever, blisters, mucosal involvement, conjunctivitis, facial edema, angioedema, hepatitis, or eosinophilia).1 Monitor clinical status, including laboratory parameters, and initiate appropriate therapy.1

Hepatotoxicity

Adverse hepatic effects reported; hepatotoxicity reported in some patients without preexisting hepatic disease or other risk factors.1

HIV-infected patients with HBV or HCV coinfection or marked elevations in aminotransferase concentrations prior to rilpivirine treatment may be at increased risk for development or worsening of aminotransferase concentration elevations.1

In patients with underlying hepatic disease (e.g., HBV or HCV infection, elevated aminotransferase concentrations), perform laboratory tests to evaluate hepatic function prior to and during rilpivirine treatment (single entity or fixed combinations).1

Consider liver enzyme monitoring in patients without preexisting hepatic disease or other risk factors.1

Depressive Disorders

Depressive disorders (e.g., depressed mood, depression, dysphoria, major depression, altered mood, negative thoughts, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation) reported.1

Advise patients experiencing severe depressive symptoms to seek immediate medical evaluation to determine the likelihood that symptoms are related to rilpivirine and to determine if benefits of continued rilpivirine outweigh risks.1

Risk of Adverse Reactions or Loss of Virologic Response Due to Drug Interactions

Concomitant use with certain drugs (e.g., drugs that may reduce rilpivirine concentrations, drugs known to increase risk of torsade de pointes) is contraindicated or requires particular caution.1 Some drug interactions may lead to loss of virologic effect of rilpivirine and the possible development of resistance.1 Consider the potential for drug interactions with concomitant medications prior to, and during treatment with rilpivirine.1

Immune Reconstitution Syndrome

During initial treatment, HIV-infected patients who respond to antiretroviral therapy may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (e.g., Mycobacterium avium, M. tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus [CMV], Pneumocystis jirovecii [formerly P. carinii]); this may necessitate further evaluation and treatment.1

Autoimmune disorders (e.g., Graves' disease, polymyositis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, autoimmune hepatitis) also reported to occur in the setting of immune reconstitution; time to onset is more variable and can occur many months after initiation of ARV therapy.1

Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Human data indicate no increased risk of birth defects.1 No dosage adjustments necessary in females stable on a rilpivirine-containing regimen prior to pregnancy and who are virologically suppressed (<50 copies/mL).1 Monitor viral load closely in pregnant females; lower rilpivirine exposures have been observed in pregnant individuals.1

Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry at 800-258-4263 or [Web].1

Lactation

Not known whether rilpivirine distributed into human milk or effects on breastfed infant or milk production; distributed into milk in rats.1

Instruct HIV-infected females not to breast-feed because of risk of HIV transmission and risk of adverse effects in the infant.1

Pediatric Use

Safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics not established in pediatric patients <12 years of age or weighing <35 kg.1

Geriatric Use

Insufficient experience in patients ≥65 years of age to determine whether they respond differently than younger adults.1

Select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.1

Hepatic Impairment

Not studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C).1

Higher incidence of increased serum aminotransferase concentrations reported in HIV-infected patients coinfected with HBV and/or HCV compared with those without coinfection.1

Renal Impairment

Use with caution and increased monitoring for adverse effects in patients with severe renal impairment or ESRD; increased rilpivirine concentrations possible due to alterations in absorption, distribution, or metabolism.1

Common Adverse Effects

Adverse effects of at least moderate to severe intensity (≥2%): depressive disorders, insomnia, headache, rash.1

Drug Interactions

Rilpivirine is metabolized by CYP3A.1

The following drug interactions are based on studies using single-entity rilpivirine.1 When rilpivirine fixed combinations are used, interactions associated with each drug in the fixed combination should be considered.13 14 233 244

Drugs Affecting or Metabolized by Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes

CYP3A inducers: Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations and possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance to rilpivirine or the NNRTI class.1

CYP3A inhibitors: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations.1

CYP substrates: Recommended rilpivirine dosage (25 mg once daily) unlikely to have clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions.1

Drugs that Increase Gastric pH

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations, loss of virologic response, and development of drug resistance or NNRTI class resistance.1

Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval

Only limited data available to date regarding potential for pharmacodynamic interaction if used concomitantly with drugs known to prolong QT interval and increase the risk of torsade de pointes.1 In healthy individuals, rilpivirine dosages of 75 or 300 mg daily (substantially higher than recommended dosage) resulted in clinically important prolongation of QTc interval.1

Use caution if rilpivirine used concomitantly with drugs known to increase risk of torsade de pointes.1

Specific Drugs

Drug

Interaction

Comments

Abacavir

Pharmacokinetic interactions unlikely1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Acetaminophen

No clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Antacids (aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide)

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations with possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance1

Administer antacids at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations)1

Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin)

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations1

Concomitant use with rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations) contraindicated1

Antifungals, azoles

Ketoconazole: Increased rilpivirine concentrations and AUC; decreased ketoconazole concentrations and AUC1

Fluconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations and decreased azole antifungal concentrations;1

Dosage adjustments not needed if used with rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations); monitor for breakthrough fungal infections1

Antimycobacterials, rifamycins

Rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine: Decreased rilpivirine concentrations and AUC1

Rifabutin: Increase single-entity rilpivirine dosage to 50 mg once daily; if rifabutin is stopped, resume usual rilpivirine dosage (25 mg once daily);1

Rifampin, rifapentine: Concomitant use with rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations) contraindicated1

Atazanavir

Ritonavir-boosted or unboosted atazanavir: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect atazanavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Ritonavir-boosted or unboosted atazanavir: Dosage adjustments not needed200

Atorvastatin

No clinically important pharmacokinetic interaction with rilpivirine1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Cabotegravir

No clinically important effect on rilpivirine concentrations or AUC1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Chlorzoxazone

No clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Darunavir

Ritonavir-boosted darunavir: Increased rilpivirine concentrations and AUC; no clinically important effects on darunavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects1

Ritonavir-boosted darunavir: Dosage adjustments not needed1

Delavirdine

Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations1

Concomitant use not recommended1

Dexamethasone

Systemic dexamethasone: Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations if more than a single dose of dexamethasone used1

Systemic dexamethasone: Concomitant use of more than a single dose of dexamethasone with rilpivirine (single-entity or fixed combinations) contraindicated1

Didanosine

No effect on rilpivirine or didanosine concentrations when administered 2 hours apart1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Administer didanosine (without food) at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after rilpivirine (with food); dosage adjustments not needed1

Digoxin

No clinically important effect on digoxin pharmacokinetics1

Efavirenz

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Concomitant use not recommended1

Emtricitabine

Pharmacokinetic interactions unlikely1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Enfuvirtide

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Estrogens/progestins

Contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone: No clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions1

Contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone: Dosage adjustments not needed1

Etravirine

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Concomitant use not recommended1

Fosamprenavir

Fosamprenavir or ritonavir-boosted fosamprenavir: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect amprenavir concentrations (active metabolite of fosamprenavir)1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects with amprenavir (active metabolite of fosamprenavir)1

Fosamprenavir (with or without low-dose ritonavir): Dosage adjustments not needed1

Histamine H2-receptor antagonists

Famotidine: Decreased rilpivirine concentrations with possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance1

Cimetidine, nizatidine: Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations1

Administer histamine H2-receptor antagonist at least 12 hours before or at least 4 hours after rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations)1

Indinavir

Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect indinavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Lamivudine

Pharmacokinetic interactions unlikely1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Lopinavir/ritonavir

Increased rilpivirine concentrations and AUC; no clinically important effect on lopinavir concentrations or AUC1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Macrolides

Clarithromycin or erythromycin: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations1

Clarithromycin or erythromycin: Consider alternative (e.g., azithromycin) whenever possible in patients receiving rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations)1

Maraviroc

Clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions unlikely1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Metformin

Rilpivirine has no clinically important effects on metformin pharmacokinetics1

Methadone

Decreased methadone concentrations and AUC; no clinically important effects on rilpivirine concentrations or AUC1

Adjustment of initial methadone dosage not needed; closely monitor for methadone efficacy; adjustment of maintenance methadone dosage may be needed1

Nelfinavir

Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect nelfinavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Nevirapine

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Concomitant use not recommended1

Proton-pump inhibitors

Omeprazole: Decreased rilpivirine concentrations and AUC with possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance1

Esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole: Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations with possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance1

Concomitant use with rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations) contraindicated1

Raltegravir

No clinically important effect on raltegravir or rilpivirine concentrations or AUC1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Dosage adjustments not needed for either drug1

Ribavirin

Pharmacokinetic interactions with rilpivirine unlikely1

Ritonavir

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Possible decreased rilpivirine concentrations with possible loss of virologic response and development of resistance1

Concomitant use with rilpivirine (single entity or fixed combinations) contraindicated1

Saquinavir

Ritonavir-boosted saquinavir: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect saquinavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Ritonavir-boosted saquinavir: Dosage adjustments not needed1

Sildenafil

No clinically important pharmacokinetic interaction with rilpivirine1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Simeprevir

No clinically important effect on rilpivirine or simeprevir pharmacokinetics1

Dosage adjustments not needed for either drug1

Tenofovir

Increased tenofovir concentrations and AUC; no clinically important effects on rilpivirine concentrations or AUC1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects 1

Dosage adjustments not needed1

Tipranavir

Ritonavir-boosted tipranavir: Possible increased rilpivirine concentrations; not expected to affect tipranavir concentrations1

No in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects1

Ritonavir-boosted tipranavir: Dosage adjustments not needed1

Zidovudine

Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely; no in vitro evidence of antagonistic ARV effects

Rilpivirine Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Bioavailability

Absolute oral bioavailability unknown.1

Peak plasma rilpivirine concentrations attained within approximately 4–5 hours.1

Food

Systemic exposure decreased by about 40–50% if rilpivirine administered under fasting conditions or with only a protein-rich nutritional drink (300 kcal) compared with administration with a meal.1

Administration with a standard meal (533 kcal) or high-calorie meal (982 kcal) results in similar rilpivirine exposures.1

Distribution

Extent

Distribution into compartments other than plasma (e.g., CSF, genital tract secretions) not evaluated.1

Plasma Protein Binding

Approximately 99.7% (in vitro), principally albumin.1

Approximately 99% during second and third trimesters and postpartum period.1

Elimination

Metabolism

Metabolized principally in the liver by CYP3A.1

Elimination Route

Following oral administration of a single dose, 85% of rilpivirine dose eliminated in feces (75% as metabolites) and 6% eliminated in urine (<1% as unchanged rilpivirine).1

Because rilpivirine is highly bound to plasma proteins, clinically important removal by peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis is unlikely.1

Half-life

Terminal elimination half-life is about 50 hours.1

Special Populations

Mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A or B) increases rilpivirine exposure by 47 or 5%, respectively.1

Coinfection with HIV and HBV or HCV does not alter rilpivirine exposure.1

Mild renal impairment does not alter rilpivirine exposure.1 Only limited data available for patients with moderate or severe renal impairment; rilpivirine concentrations may be increased as a result of altered absorption, distribution, or elimination.1

Pharmacokinetics in treatment-naïve HIV-1-infected pediatric patients 12 to <18 years of age receiving rilpivirine 25 mg once daily is similar to those observed in treatment-naïve adult patients.1

Gender differences in pharmacokinetics not observed.1

Race not expected to affect rilpivirine exposure.1

Total exposure to rilpivirine 30-40% lower in pregnant females.1 Not clinically relevant if virologically suppressed (<50 copies/mL).1

Stability

Storage

Oral

Tablets

25°C (excursions permitted to 15–30°C);1 store in original container.1

Actions and Spectrum

Advice to Patients

Additional Information

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. represents that the information provided in the accompanying monograph was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. Readers are advised that decisions regarding use of drugs are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and that the information contained in the monograph is provided for informational purposes only. The manufacturer’s labeling should be consulted for more detailed information. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. does not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information contained in the monograph is not a substitute for medical care.

Preparations

Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.

Please refer to the ASHP Drug Shortages Resource Center for information on shortages of one or more of these preparations.

Rilpivirine Hydrochloride

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Tablets, film-coated

25 mg (of rilpivirine)

Edurant

Janssen

AHFS DI Essentials™. © Copyright 2024, Selected Revisions October 26, 2023. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.

† Off-label: Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

References

1. Janssen Therapeutics. Edurant (rilpivirine) tablets prescribing information. Titusville, NJ; 2022 Oct.

2. Cohen CJ, Molina JM, Cahn P et al. Efficacy and safety of rilpivirine (TMC278) versus efavirenz at 48 weeks in treatment-naive HIV-1-infected patients: pooled results from the phase 3 double-blind randomized ECHO and THRIVE Trials. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2012; 60:33-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22343174?dopt=AbstractPlus

3. Pozniak AL, Morales-Ramirez J, Katabira E et al. Efficacy and safety of TMC278 in antiretroviral-naive HIV-1 patients: week 96 results of a phase IIb randomized trial. AIDS. 2010; 24:55-65. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19926964?dopt=AbstractPlus

4. Ripamonti D, Maggiolo F. Rilpivirine, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor for the treatment of HIV infection. Curr Opin Investig Drugs. 2008; 9:899-912. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18666038?dopt=AbstractPlus

5. Chen X, Zhan P, Li D et al. Recent advances in DAPYs and related analogues as HIV-1 NNRTIs. Curr Med Chem. 2011; 18:359-76. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21143120?dopt=AbstractPlus

6. Azijn H, Tirry I, Vingerhoets J et al. TMC278, a next-generation nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), active against wild-type and NNRTI-resistant HIV-1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2010; 54:718-27. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19933797?dopt=AbstractPlus

7. Fulco PP, McNicholl IR. Etravirine and rilpivirine: nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors with activity against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 strains resistant to previous nonnucleoside agents. Pharmacotherapy. 2009; 29:281-94. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19249947?dopt=AbstractPlus

8. Miller CD, Crain J, Tran B et al. Rilpivirine: a new addition to the anti-HIV-1 armamentarium. Drugs Today (Barc). 2011; 47:5-15. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21373646?dopt=AbstractPlus

9. Das K, Bauman JD, Clark AD et al. High-resolution structures of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase/TMC278 complexes: strategic flexibility explains potency against resistance mutations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008; 105:1466-71. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18230722?dopt=AbstractPlus

10. Molina JM, Cahn P, Grinsztejn B et al. Rilpivirine versus efavirenz with tenofovir and emtricitabine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1 (ECHO): a phase 3 randomised double-blind active-controlled trial. Lancet. 2011; 378:238-46. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21763936?dopt=AbstractPlus

11. Cohen CJ, Andrade-Villanueva J, Clotet B et al. Rilpivirine versus efavirenz with two background nucleoside or nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1 (THRIVE): a phase 3, randomised, non-inferiority trial. Lancet. 2011; 378:229-37. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21763935?dopt=AbstractPlus

12. Nelson MR, Elion RA, Cohen CJ et al. Rilpivirine versus efavirenz in HIV-1-infected subjects receiving emtricitabine/tenofovir DF: pooled 96-week data from ECHO and THRIVE Studies. HIV Clin Trials. 2013 May-Jun; 14:81-91.

13. ViiV Healthcare Company. Juluca (dolutegravir sodium and rilpivirine hydrochloride) tablets prescribing information. Durham, NC; 2022 Oct.

14. ViiV Healthcare Company. Cabenuva (cabotegravir and rilpivirine) prescribing information. Research Triangle Park, NC; 2022 Apr.

17. ViiV Healthcare Company. Vocabria (cabotegravir sodium) tablets prescribing information. Research Triangle Park, NC; 2022 Mar.

18. Orkin C, Arasteh K, Górgolas Hernández-Mora M et al. Long-Acting Cabotegravir and Rilpivirine after Oral Induction for HIV-1 Infection. N Engl J Med. 2020; 382:1124-1135.

19. Orkin C, Bernal Morell E, Tan DHS et al. Initiation of long-acting cabotegravir plus rilpivirine as direct-to-injection or with an oral lead-in in adults with HIV-1 infection: week 124 results of the open-label phase 3 FLAIR study. Lancet HIV. 2021; 8:e668-e678.

20. Swindells S, Andrade-Villanueva J-F, Richmond GJ et al. Long-Acting Cabotegravir and Rilpivirine for Maintenance of HIV-1 Suppression. N Engl J Med. 2020; 382:1112-23

21. Swindells S, Luts T, Van Zyl L et al. Week 96 extension results of a Phase 3 study evaluating long-acting cabotegravir with rilpivirine for HIV-1 treatment. AIDS. 2022; 36:185-94.

22. Overton ET, Richmond G, Rizzardini G et al. Long-acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine dosed every 2 months in adults with HIV-1 infection (ATLAS-2M), 48-week results: a randomised, multicentre, open-label, phase 3b, non-inferiority study. Lancet. 2021; 396:1994-2005.

23. Jaeger H, Overton ET, Richmond G et al. Long-acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine dosed every 2 months in adults with HIV-1 infection (ATLAS-2M), 96-week results: a randomised, multicentre, open-label, phase 3b, non-inferiority study. Lancet HIV. 2021; 8:e679-e689.

24. Llibre JM, Hung CC, Brinson C et al. Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of dolutegravir-rilpivirine for the maintenance of virological suppression in adults with HIV-1: phase 3, randomised, non-inferiority SWORD-1 and SWORD-2 studies. Lancet. 2018; 391:839-49.

25. van Wyk J, Orkin C, Rubio R et al. Brief Report: Durable Suppression and Low Rate of Virologic Failure 3 Years After Switch to Dolutegravir + Rilpivirine 2-Drug Regimen: 148-Week Results From the SWORD-1 and SWORD-2 Randomized Clinical Trials. J Acquir Immun Defic Syndr. 2020; 85:325-30.

26. Maggiolo F, Gianotti N, Comi L et al. Rilpivirine plus cobicistat-boosted darunavir as a two-drug switch regimen in HIV-infected, virologically suppressed subjects on steady standard three-drug therapy: a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial (PROBE 2). J Antimicrob Chemother. 2020; 75:1332-37.

27. Maggiolo F, Gianotti N, Comi L et al. Rilpivirine plus cobicistat-boosted darunavir as alternative to standard three-drug therapy in HIV-infected, virologically suppressed subjects: Final results of the PROBE 2 trial. Antivir Ther. 2021; 26:51-7.

28. Lombaard J, Bunupuradah T, Flynn PM et al. Rilpivirine as a Treatment for HIV-infected Antiretroviral-naïve Adolescents: Week 48 Safety, Efficacy, Virology and Pharmacokinetics. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2016; 35:1215-21.

29. Lombaard J, Ssali F, Thanyawee P et al. Phase 2 Open-Label Study of Long-Term Safety, Tolerability, and Antiviral Activity of Rilpivirine in Antiretroviral-Naive Adolescents Living with HIV-1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2022; 66:e0091621.

30. Falcon-Neyra L, Palladino C, Navarro Gómez ML et al. Off-label use of rilpivirine in combination with emtricitabine and tenofovir in HIV-1-infected pediatric patients: A multicenter study. Medicine (Baltimore). 2016; 95:e3842.

31. Foster R, McAllister J, Read TR et al. Single-Tablet Emtricitabine-Rilpivirine-Tenofovir as HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis in Men Who Have Sex With Men. Clin Infect Dis. 2015; 61:1336-41.

32. Chauveau M, Billaud E, Bonnet B et al. Tenofovir DF/emtricitabine/rilpivirine as HIV post-exposure prophylaxis: results from a multicentre prospective study. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2019; 74:1021-7.

198. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated guidelines for antiretroviral postexposure prophylaxis after sexual, injection drug use, or other nonoccupational exposure to HIV – United States, 2016. From HHS AIDS Information (AIDSinfo) website. http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov

199. Kuhar DT, Henderson DK, Struble KA et al. Updated US Public Health Service guidelines for the management of occupational exposures to human immunodeficiency virus and recommendations for postexposure prophylaxis. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2013; 34:875-92. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23917901?dopt=AbstractPlus

200. Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for Adults and Adolescents, US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents in HIV-1-infected adults and adolescents. Updates may be available at HHS AIDS Information (AIDSinfo) website. http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov

201. Panel on Antiretroviral Therapy and Medical Management of HIV-infected Children, US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents in pediatric HIV infection. Updates may be available at HHS AIDS Information (AIDSinfo) website. http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov

202. Panel on Treatment of HIV-Infected Pregnant Women and Prevention of Perinatal Transmission, US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Recommendations for use of antiretroviral drugs in pregnant HIV-1-infected women for maternal health and interventions to reduce perinatal HIV transmission in the United States. Updates may be available at HHS AIDS Information (AIDSinfo) website. http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov

233. Gilead Sciences. Complera (emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) tablets prescribing information. Foster City, CA; 2022 Nov.

244. Gilead Sciences. Odefsey (emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir alafenamide) tablets prescribing information. Foster City, CA. 2021 Sep.

Frequently asked questions