Efavirenz

Brand Name: Sustiva & Stocrin

What is it?
Efavirenz is in the category of drugs referred to as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. These types of drugs are used in the treatment of the HIV virus. This drug works by slowing the down the spread of HIV in the body. This is not a cure for this disease.

How to take it?
Efavirenz needs to be prescribed by your doctor. It comes in tablet or capsule form. You need to take it once a day with a full glass of water, but should be taken on an empty stomach. It is recommended that you take the drug at bedtime. You should never stop taking this drug, without first checking with your doctor. Many individuals begin to see improvement in their conditions, after about two weeks of taking the medication.

Warnings and Precautions
If you are going to take this medication your doctor needs to know if you have a history of heart, liver or kidney disease, high levels of cholesterol, mental illness, and have had seizures in the past.

There are some drugs that can possibly interact with this medication. If you are taking acetaminophen, diltiazem, anticoagulants, antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and cimetidine, you need to advise your doctor before taking this medication. You also need to inform your doctor of any nutritional or herbal supplements you might be taking, this includes kava or St. John’s wort as these could have a negative reaction to the medication.

If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breast-feeding, you need to inform your doctor immediately as this medication could have a negative reaction to your baby or unborn child. There is some evidence that suggests that if you take this drug while pregnant it increase the chance of your child being born with birth defects. This medication is not recommended for children.

This medication can make you dizzy and drowsy so you should avoid driving a car or using machinery while on this medication. You should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication as it can worsen the side effects that are associated with this drug. If you smoke, this can also have an adverse affect on how this medication works, so be sure to tell your doctor if you do.

If you are going to have elective surgery, including dental you need to inform your doctor. As an individual will need to stop the usage of this medication at least twenty-four to forty-eight hours prior to having the surgery performed.

An individual may also see an increase in body fat, while on this medication. The body fat usually appears in the breast area, and in the upper back area. You should discuss this with your doctor before beginning to take this medication.

What should you do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take that dose only. Do not take any extra doses.

What are the side effects?
There are many side effects that this medication can bring on. Some of the common side effects include pain, confusion, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, indigestion and sweating. There are some side effects that are more serious and require immediate medical attention, these include: rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fainting, fever, and blisters or sore on the skin.

How to store this medication?
This medication should be kept in the tight container it came in, and out of the reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, and away from excessive heat and moisture. This medication should not be stored in your bathroom as that will expose it to heat and moisture. You should never use any medication after its expiration date.

What does it look like?
Efavirenz comes in tablet and capsule form. The usually beginning dosage for an adult is 600mg once a day. Your doctor will have to run tests to see how an individual is responding to the medication, before allowing an individual to continue with its usage.
 
What if you overdose?
If you by chance take more than the recommended amount of this drug and overdose, contact poison control center immediately; along with your doctor.

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