Nevirapine 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. Nevirapine works differently than other drugs such as AZT, 3TC or ddI.
Nevirapine 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. Nevirapine does not cure HIV nor does it prevent HIV
transmission. As the effect of nevirapine 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 ?
When first starting nevirapine, the dose is 200mg (one tablet) per day for the first 14 days. Then increase your dose to
400mg (two tablets) daily. Starting the drug at a lower dose in the first two weeks has been shown to decrease the frequency of rash.
· Nevirapine is supplied as a 200mg tablet.
· Nevirapine is meant to be taken in combination with nucleoside analogues and/or protease inhibitors.
· Nevirapine can be taken with or without food. Nevirapine tablets should be swallowed unchewed with water.
· You may wish to take your nevirapine at night, since it may make you drowsy.
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 nevirapine, 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 (ie. 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 nevirapine is a mild rash. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any rash while
taking nevirapine. Most rashes occur in the first 6 weeks of taking nevirapine. If you have any rash during the first 14
days of treatment, do not increase your dose until the rash resolves. In most cases, the rash can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications.
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 nevirapine. 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 nevirapine 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?
Nevirapine 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.
· Some medications when administered with nevirapine may require a dosage increase of that medication. Discuss this with your pharmacist or physician.
· Nevirapine may decrease blood levels of certain protease inhibitors (i.e., saquinavir, indinavir, nelfinavir). The dosage of your protease inhibitor may need to be adjusted.
· Women should NOT take oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or other hormonal methods of birth control while taking nevirapine.
· The safety of nevirapine has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Safety of nevirapine 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 nevirapine in tightly-closed container at room temperature (15-30C). 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 ____________________
