Delavirdine belongs to a new class of drugs called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). These drugs
interfere with the replication of the HIV virus by directly blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme. The HIV virus needs
this enzyme to replicate. Delavirdine works differently than other drugs such as AZT, 3TC or ddI.
Delavirdine is an antiretroviral medication that slows down the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and
may therefore slow the progression of the HIV disease. Delavirdine does not cure HIV nor does it prevent HIV
transmission. As the effect of delavirdine may decrease over time, it is important that your progress is assessed regularly
by your doctor. It is not currently known how long the beneficial effects of this medication will last.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Delavirdine is supplied as a 100mg tablet. The usual dose of delavirdine is 400 mg (4 tablets) every 8 hours.
- Delavirdine is meant to be taken in combination with nucleoside analogues and/or protease inhibitors.
- Delavirdine can be taken with or without food. Delavirdine tablets should be swallowed whole with water. If you
have difficulty swallowing tablets, delavirdine tablets can be placed in a glass of water until you see it is dissolving. Wait for the tablets to dissolve, then stir to mix.
- Your doctor may adjust the recommended dose to suit your particular needs. .
What should you do if you FORGET a dose ?
If you miss a dose of delavirdine, take it as soon as possible, then just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. If you
remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose (i.e. within 2 hours), do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What SIDE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do about them?
The most common side effect of delavirdine is a mild rash. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any rash while
taking delavirdine. Most rashes occur in the first 4 weeks of taking delavirdine. In most cases, the rash can be treated
with anti-inflammatory medications or antihistamines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications to treat the rash.
If you develop a severe rash, or a rash with symptoms such as fever, blistering, mouth sores, conjunctivitis, swelling,
muscle or joint aches, or general malaise, STOP taking delavirdine. NOTIFY A DOCTOR PROMPTLY.
Other common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, sedation and fatigue. Your blood tests will also be
checked for any changes in liver function. The long-term side effects of delavirdine are still unknown. If you are
concerned about these or any other unexpected side effects, talk to your pharmacist, nurse or physician.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE
TEAM. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug?
Delavirdine can interact with other drugs. It is important that your physician or pharmacist knows about other drugs you are taking, even medications you can buy without a prescription.
- Delavirdine should not be given in combination with rifampin. Rifampin decreases the effectiveness of delavirdine.
- Delavirdine may affect blood levels of protease inhibitors. The dosage of your medication(s) may need to be adjusted to avoid side effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Delavirdine should not be taken at the same time as ddI or antacids, such as TumsTM , RolaidsTM , MaaloxTM, etc. Instead, take the delavirdine 1 hour before taking antacids or ddI.
- Delavirdine should not be given in combination with non-sedating antihistamines, such as terfenadine (Seldane)
and astemizole (Hismanal). Antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Reactine), or Benadryl may be used.
- The safety of delavirdine has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Safety of delavirdine has
not been established in children. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED ?
Store delavirdine in tightly-closed container at room temperature (15-30 C). Protect from moisture. Keep well out of the reach of children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR NURSE, PHARMACIST, OR PHYSICIAN.
PLEASE WRITE DOWN YOUR QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________
