Description

EFAVIRENZ belongs to the group of medications called ‘antiretroviral drugs’ used to treat HIV infection in adults and children of at least 3 months old and weighing at least 3.5 kg. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted infection that over time leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). EFAVIRENZ is used with other medicines to control and reduce the amount of HIV in the body so that the immune system can work in a good way.

EFAVIRENZ contains ‘Efavirenz’ which is a ‘nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor’ and works by interfering with the normal working of enzymes (reverse transcriptase in HIV ) that are essential for the production of viruses. It can effectively reduce the symptoms associated with HIV.

Take EFAVIRENZ as prescribed by your doctor. You are suggested to take EFAVIRENZ as long as your doctor has prescribed it after checking your medical condition. The common side effects of EFAVIRENZ are trouble sleeping, drowsiness, dizziness, unusual dreams and trouble concentrating. However, seek medical attention if the side effects persist.

Do not take EFAVIRENZ if you are allergic to EFAVIRENZ or any other contents present in it. EFAVIRENZ should be used with caution in patients with severe liver and kidney diseases. Consult a doctor immediately if you develop any new signs of infection while using this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant and breastfeeding. It is important to monitor liver functions during the treatment, in persons with liver disease including hepatitis B or C infection. Older adults are sensitive to the side effects of EFAVIRENZ, so dosage adjustment is required.

Uses of EFAVIRENZ

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Medicinal Benefits

EFAVIRENZ is used with other medicines to control and treat HIV infection. This medicine helps to reduce the amount of HIV, which in turn improves the natural defense system(immune system ) of the body. When a person takes EFAVIRENZ, it goes into their bloodstream and interferes with the action of an enzyme ( reverse transcriptase (RT)), that is used by HIV infected cells for their growth and making new viruses. HIV destroys the white cells of the body that are important for protecting the body from other infections. EFAVIRENZ slows down the destruction of these white cells and stops the virus from copying it. By inhibiting the activity of this enzyme, EFAVIRENZ helps to lower the risk of getting serious infections associated with HIV and allows a person to live a normal life.

Directions for Use

Take EFAVIRENZ as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole with water; do not crush, break or chew it.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Side Effects of EFAVIRENZ

• Rash
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Abnormal heartbeats
• Liver failure
• Increased cholesterol increased triglyceride levels
• Drowsiness
• Abnormal dreams
• Hallucinations
• Difficulty concentrating