Efavirenz 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.
Efavirenz is used together with other anti-HIV medications to slow down the replication of the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) and may therefore slow the progression of HIV disease. Efavirenz does not cure HIV nor does it prevent HIV
transmission. As the effect of efavirenz 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 ?
- Efavirenz is supplied as a 200mg capsule.
- The usual dose of efavirenz is 600 mg (3 capsules) daily.
- It is recommended that you take efavirenz at bedtime in order to decrease day-time side effects.
- Efavirenz is meant to be taken in combination with nucleoside analogues and/or protease inhibitors.
- Efavirenz may be taken with or without food.
Your doctor may adjust the dose to suit your particular needs. Your dosage regimen is: _______ .
What should you do if you FORGET a dose ?
If you miss a dose of efavirenz, 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, 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 efavirenz is a mild rash. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any rash while
taking efavirenz. 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 efavirenz. NOTIFY A DOCTOR PROMPTLY.
Other common side effects include light-headedness, an inability to concentrate, anxiety, and restlessness. These symptoms are usually temporary, and improve with time.
The long-term side effects of efavirenz 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 ?
Efavirenz 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.
- Efavirenz may affect blood levels of certain protease inhibitors (i.e., saquinavir, indinavir, amprenavir). The dosage of your protease inhibitor may need to be adjusted.
- The safety of efavirenz has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Safety of efavirenz 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?
Efavirenz should be stored in a cool (15-30 C) dry place, protected from light. Protect from moisture. Keep well out of the reach of children.
Do not store efavirenz in your bathroom, as the heat and moisture may cause efavirenz to lose its potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOU
PHARMACIST, NURSE, OR DOCTOR.
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 ____________________.
