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vocabria

Vocabria (Cabotegravir Sodium) is a human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitor used to treat Hiv Infections.

Cabotegravir Sodium · by Viiv Hlthcare

Not yet rated· sourced from the FDA label
Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated June 7, 2026·How we rate
Verified againstopenFDANIH DailyMedRxClass

Key facts

Active ingredient
Cabotegravir Sodium
Form
Tablet
Strength
Cabotegravir Sodium EQ 30MG Base
Type
Prescription (Rx)
Brand or generic
Brand-name
Manufacturer
Viiv Hlthcare
FDA application
NDA212887

What is Vocabria?

From the FDA label:VOCABRIA contains cabotegravir, as cabotegravir sodium, an HIV integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI). The chemical name of cabotegravir sodium is sodium ( 3S,11aR )-N-[(2,4-difluorophenyl)methyl]-6-hydroxy-3-methyl-5,7-dioxo-2,3,5,7,11,11a-hexahydro[1,3]oxazolo[3,2-a]pyrido [1,2-d]pyrazine-8-carboxamide. The empirical formula is C 19 H 16 F 2 N 3 NaO 5 and the molecular weight is 427.34 g/mol. It has the following structural formula: Cabotegravir sodium is a white to almost white crystalline solid that is slightly soluble in water. Each immediate-release film-coated tablet of VOCABRIA for oral administration contains 30 mg of cabotegravir (equivalent to 31.62 mg cabotegravir sodium) and the inactive ingredients: hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate. The tablet film-coating contains hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide. Cabotegravir sodium chemical structure

How to use

One tablet of VOCABRIA 30 mg taken orally once daily in combination with 1 tablet of EDURANT 25 mg taken orally once daily with a meal: • for approximately 1 month if oral lead-in is used for HIV-1 treatment. ( 2.1 ) • for up to 2 months to replace up to 2 consecutive missed monthly injections of CABENUVA ( 2.2 ) Refer to 2.1 for dosing recommendations for missed injections. ( 2.1 ) • HIV-1 Screening: Screen all individuals for HIV-1 infection prior to initiating VOCABRIA and APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP and at least once every 3 months while taking APRETUDE. ( 2.2 ) • One tablet of VOCABRIA 30 mg taken orally once daily for approximately 1 month if oral lead-in is used for HIV-1 PrEP. Refer to 2.2 for dosing recommendations for missed injections. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Treatment of HIV-1 Infection in Adults and Adolescents 12 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 35 kg Oral Lead-In Dosing to Assess Tolerability of Cabotegravir Consult the prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) before initiating VOCABRIA to ensure therapy with CABENUVA is appropriate. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA. Oral lead-in may be used to assess the tolerability of cabotegravir prior to the initiation of CABENUVA. The recommended oral lead-in daily dose is one 30-mg tablet of VOCABRIA with one…

Side effects

The following adverse reactions are described below and in other sections of the labeling: • Hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Depressive disorders [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • In patients with HIV-1, the most common adverse reactions observed in at least 3 participants receiving VOCABRIA were fatigue, headache, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, abnormal dreams, anxiety, insomnia, abdominal discomfort, abdominal distension, and asthenia. ( 6.1 ) • In individuals without HIV-1 receiving VOCABRIA, the most common adverse reactions reported in ≥1% were headache, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, somnolence, fatigue, abnormal dreams, and abdominal pain. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ViiV Healthcare at 1-877-844-8872 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect rates observed in practice. See full prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) for additional safety…

Warnings

Important safety information

HIV-1 PrEP: Comprehensive management to reduce the risk of HIV-1 acquisition. ( 5.1 ) • Serious or severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with cabotegravir and include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Discontinue VOCABRIA immediately if signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions develop. ( 5.2 ) • Hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients receiving cabotegravir. Monitoring of liver chemistries is recommended when VOCABRIA is used for HIV-1 treatment. Clinical and laboratory monitoring should be considered when VOCABRIA is used for HIV-1 PrEP. Discontinue VOCABRIA if hepatotoxicity is suspected. ( 5.3 ) • Depressive disorders have been reported with VOCABRIA when used with EDURANT for HIV-1 treatment. Prompt evaluation is recommended for depressive symptoms. ( 5.4 ) • Risks Associated with Combination Treatment: Review the prescribing information for EDURANT for information on rilpivirine prior to initiation of VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT. ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Comprehensive Management to Reduce the Risk of HIV-1 Infection When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP should be part of a comprehensive prevention strategy including adherence to the dosing schedule and safer sex practices, including condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). VOCABRIA is not always effective in preventing HIV-1 acquisition [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . The time from initiation of VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP to maximal protection against HIV-1 infection is unknown. Risk for HIV-1 acquisition includes behavioral, biological, or epidemiologic factors including, but not limited to, condomless sex, past or current STIs, self-identified HIV risk, having sexual partners of unknown HIV-1 viremic status, or sexual activity in a high prevalence area or network. Counsel individuals on the use of other prevention measures (e.g., consistent and correct condom use; knowledge of partner(s)’ HIV-1 status, including viral suppression status; regular testing for STIs that can facilitate HIV-1 transmission). Inform individuals about and support their efforts in reducing sexual risk behavior. VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 should be used only in individuals confirmed to be HIV-1 negative [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . HIV-1 resistance substitutions may emerge in individuals with undiagnosed HIV-1 infection who are taking only VOCABRIA, because VOCABRIA alone does not constitute a complete regimen for HIV-1 treatment [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] ; therefore, care should be taken to minimize the risk of initiating or continuing VOCABRIA before confirming the individual is HIV-1 negative. • Prior to initiating VOCABRIA for HIV-1 PrEP, ask seronegative individuals about recent (in past month) potential exposure events (e.g., condomless sex or condom breaking during sex with a partner of unknown HIV-1 status or unknown viremic status, a recent STI), and evaluate for current or recent signs or symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection (e.g., fever, fatigue, myalgia, skin rash). • If recent (<1 month) exposures to HIV-1 are suspected or clinical symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection are present, use a test approved or cleared by the FDA as an aid in the diagnosis of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. Testing should be repeated prior to each injection of APRETUDE and upon diagnosis of any other STIs [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )]. • If an HIV-1 test indicates possible HIV-1 infection, or if symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection develop following an exposure event, additional HIV testing to determine HIV status is needed. If an individual has confirmed HIV-1 infection, then the individual must be transitioned to a complete HIV-1 treatment regimen. Counsel individuals without HIV-1 to strictly adhere to the recommended dosing schedule for VOCABRIA in order to reduce the risk of HIV-1 acquisition and the potential development of resistance [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ), Microbiology ( 12.4 )] . Some individuals, such as adolescents, may benefit from frequent visits and counseling to support adherence to the dosing schedule [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ), Microbiology ( 12.4 ), Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . 5.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions Serious or severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with cabotegravir and include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Administration of oral lead-in dosing was used in clinical studies to help identify participants who may be at risk of a hypersensitivity reaction. Remain vigilant and discontinue VOCABRIA if a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ), Contraindications ( 4 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6 )] . Discontinue VOCABRIA immediately if signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions develop (including, but not limited to, severe rash, or rash accompanied by fever, general malaise, fatigue, muscle or joint aches, blisters, mucosal involvement [oral blisters or lesions], conjunctivitis, facial edema, hepatitis, eosinophilia, angioedema, difficulty breathing). Clinical status, including liver transaminases, should be monitored and appropriate therapy initiated. 5.3 Hepatotoxicity Hepatotoxicity has been reported in a limited number of patients receiving cabotegravir with or without known pre-existing hepatic disease or identifiable risk factors [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . When VOCABRIA is Used for Treatment HIV-1 Infection Patients with underlying liver disease or marked elevations in transaminases prior to treatment with VOCABRIA may be at increased risk for worsening or development of transaminase elevations. Monitoring of liver chemistries is recommended and treatment with VOCABRIA should be discontinued if hepatotoxicity is suspected. When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Clinical and laboratory monitoring should be considered and VOCABRIA should be discontinued if hepatotoxicity is suspected, and individuals managed as clinically indicated. 5.4 Depressive Disorders When VOCABRIA is Used for Treatment HIV-1 Infection Depressive disorders (including depressed mood, depression, mood altered, mood swings, suicidal ideation/suicide attempt) have been reported with VOCABRIA when used with EDURANT for treatment of HIV-1 infection [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Promptly evaluate patients with depressive symptoms to assess whether the symptoms are related to VOCABRIA and to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits. When VOCABRIA is Used for HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Depressive disorders (including depression, depressed mood, persistent depressive disorder, suicidal ideation/suicide attempt) have been reported with VOCABRIA [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Promptly evaluate individuals with depressive symptoms to assess whether the symptoms are related to VOCABRIA and to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits. 5.5 Risk of Adverse Reactions, Loss of Efficacy, or Reduced Concentration Due to Drug Interactions The concomitant use of VOCABRIA and other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions, some of which may lead to adverse events, loss of efficacy from VOCABRIA when used for treatment of HIV-1 infection or HIV-1 PrEP, and possible development of viral resistance [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 )] . See Table 1 for steps to prevent or manage these possible and known significant drug interactions, including dosing recommendations. Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during use of VOCABRIA; review concomitant medications during use of VOCABRIA [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . 5.6 Risks Associated with Combination Treatment VOCABRIA is indicated for use in combination with EDURANT (rilpivirine)…

Who should not take Vocabria

Treatment of HIV-1 Infection VOCABRIA is contraindicated in patients: • with previous hypersensitivity reaction to cabotegravir [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . • receiving the following coadministered drugs for which significant decreases in cabotegravir plasma concentrations may occur due to uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1 enzyme induction, which may result in loss of virologic response [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] : o Anticonvulsants: Carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin o Antimycobacterials: Rifampin, rifapentine Prior to initiation of VOCABRIA, note that use of CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) with rifabutin is contraindicated. Since VOCABRIA is taken in combination with EDURANT tablets, the prescribing information for EDURANT should be consulted for additional contraindications. HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis VOCABRIA is contraindicated in individuals: • with unknown or positive HIV-1 status [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . • with previous hypersensitivity reaction to cabotegravir [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . • receiving the following coadministered drugs for which significant decreases in cabotegravir plasma concentrations may occur due to UGT1A1 enzyme induction, which may result in loss of efficacy [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 , 7.3 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] : o Anticonvulsants: Carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin o Antimycobacterials: Rifampin, rifapentine • Previous hypersensitivity reaction to cabotegravir. ( 4 ) • Coadministration with carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, and rifapentine. ( 4 ) • Positive HIV-1 status for HIV-1 PrEP. ( 4 )

Overdose — what happens if you take too much

There is no known specific treatment for overdose with VOCABRIA. If overdose occurs, monitor the patient and apply standard supportive treatment as required as well as observation of the clinical status of the individual. As cabotegravir is highly bound to plasma proteins, it is unlikely that it will be significantly removed by dialysis.

U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.

Interactions

Refer to the full prescribing information for important drug interactions with VOCABRIA. ( 4 , 5.5 , 7 ) • VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT is a complete regimen for HIV-1 treatment. Coadministration with other antiretroviral medications for PrEP is not recommended. ( 7.1 ) • Drugs that induce uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1 may decrease the plasma concentrations of cabotegravir. ( 4 , 7.2 , 7.3 ) 7.1 Concomitant Use with Other Antiretroviral Medicines VOCABRIA in combination with EDURANT (rilpivirine) is a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Refer to the prescribing information for EDURANT for relevant information on rilpivirine. Coadministration of VOCABRIA with other antiretroviral medications for PrEP is not recommended [see Drug Interactions ( 7.4 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Prior to initiating dosing with VOCABRIA, the prescribing information for CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) or APRETUDE should be consulted to ensure use of CABENUVA or APRETUDE will be appropriate for either the treatment of HIV-1 infection or HIV-1 PrEP, respectively. 7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect VOCABRIA Cabotegravir is primarily metabolized by UGT1A1 with some contribution from UGT1A9. Drugs that are strong inducers of UGT1A1 or UGT1A9 are expected to decrease cabotegravir plasma concentrations and may result in loss of efficacy; therefore, coadministration of VOCABRIA with these drugs is contraindicated [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Coadministration of oral cabotegravir with polyvalent cation-containing products may lead to decreased absorption of cabotegravir [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . 7.3 Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Information regarding potential drug interactions with cabotegravir are provided in Table 1 . These recommendations are based on either drug interaction trials or predicted interactions due to the expected magnitude of the interaction and potential for loss of efficacy [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Table 1 includes potentially significant interactions but is not all inclusive. Refer to the prescribing information for EDURANT (rilpivirine) for established or potentially significant interactions that should be considered during concomitant administration of VOCABRIA and EDURANT for HIV-1 treatment. Table 1. Drug Interactions with VOCABRIA ↓ = Decrease; PrEP = Pre-exposure prophylaxis. a Rifabutin can be coadministered with cabotegravir; however, it is contraindicated with CABENUVA for HIV-1 treatment. Dosage modification is recommended with APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP. Concomitant Drug Class: Drug Name Effect on Concentration Clinical Comment Antacids containing polyvalent cations (e.g., aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate) ↓Cabotegravir Administer antacid products at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking VOCABRIA. Anticonvulsants: Carbamazepine Oxcarbazepine Phenobarbital Phenytoin ↓Cabotegravir Coadministration is contraindicated with VOCABRIA due to potential for loss of efficacy and development of resistance [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Antimycobacterials a : Rifampin Rifapentine ↓Cabotegravir Antimycobacterial: Rifabutin ↓Cabotegravir Dose modification is not required for VOCABRIA. Dose modification is recommended for APRETUDE for HIV-1 PrEP. Coadministration is contraindicated with CABENUVA for HIV-1 treatment. 7.4 Drugs without Clinically Significant Interactions with Cabotegravir Based on drug interaction study results, the following drugs can be coadministered with cabotegravir without a dose adjustment: etravirine, midazolam, oral contraceptives containing levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, rifabutin, and rilpivirine [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Prior to initiating oral therapy, note that use of CABENUVA (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension; rilpivirine extended-release injectable suspension) with rifabutin is contraindicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Dosage modification is recommended when APRETUDE is used with rifabutin for HIV-1 PrEP.

Drug class

May treat (source: NIH RxClass)

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Dosage forms

Tablet

The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.

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Frequently asked questions

What does Vocabria treat?
Vocabria (Cabotegravir Sodium) may be used to treat HIV infections, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
Is there a coupon or discount for Vocabria?
pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Vocabria. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
Who makes Vocabria?
Vocabria is marketed by Viiv Hlthcare. You can see Viiv Hlthcare's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
Is Vocabria a brand-name or generic drug?
Vocabria is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Cabotegravir Sodium.
Is Vocabria available over the counter?
No. Vocabria is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
What forms does Vocabria come in?
Vocabria is currently marketed as tablet, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
What class of drug is Vocabria?
Vocabria is classified as human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitor, per the FDA's Established Pharmacologic Class.
Is Vocabria FDA-registered?
Vocabria is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA212887. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
Is Vocabria safe?
There's no single safe-or-not verdict, and we don't yet have a composite recall-safety score for Vocabria. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings below, and always consult a licensed professional.
What are the side effects of Vocabria?
Vocabria's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following adverse reactions are described below and in other sections of the labeling: • Hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Depressive disorders [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • In patients with HIV-… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.

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