|
|
|
Efavirenz |
|
|
What is Efavirenz and why is it prescribed? Efavirenz is one of the growing number of drugs used to fight HIV infection. Like other drugs for HIV, Efavirenz works by impairing the virus's ability to multiply. However, when taken alone it may prompt the virus to become resistant. Efavirenz is therefore always taken with at least one other HIV medication, such as Retrovir or Crixivan. Even when used properly, it may remain effective for only a limited time. Though Efavirenz can slow the progress of HIV, it is not a cure. HIV-related infections remain a danger, so frequent checkups and tests are still advisable. How should you take Efavirenz? Follow your doctors directions for taking Efavirenz. Be sure to take Efavirenz every day, exactly as prescribed. Take Efavirenz on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime. Taking it at bedtime reduces the likelihood of side effects such as dizziness, impaired concentration, weakness, abnormal dreams, or drowsiness. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. Store Efavirenz at room temperature. Are there any Efavirenz side effects? Efavirenz side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Efavirenz side effects may include abnormal dreaming, abnormal thinking, amnesia, agitation, confusion, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, feelings of well-being, fever, hallucinations, headache, impaired concentration, insomnia, loss of identity, nausea, skin rash, and vomiting. Less common Efavirenz side effects may include abdominal pain, abnormal sense of smell, abnormal vision, aggressive behavior, alcohol intolerance, allergic reaction, anxiety, asthma, blood clots, blood in urine, convulsions, decreased sense of touch, depression, double vision, dry mouth, eczema, emotional instability, fainting, flu-like symptoms, gas, hair loss, hepatitis, hives, hot flushes, impaired coordination, indigestion, irregular heartbeat, itchy spots, joint pain, kidney stones, lack of emotion, loss of appetite, mania, mental changes, migraine headache, muscle ache, nervousness, pain, paranoia, rapid heartbeat, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to touch, speech disorder, sweating, swelling, taste disturbances, tingling or burning of the skin, tremor, vertigo, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Efavirenz? If Efavirenz is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Be sure to avoid combining Efavirenz with Versed and, Halcion. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Efavirenz with Alcohol, Amprenavir (Agenerase), Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Clarithromycin (Biaxin), Indinavir (Crixivan), Itraconazole (Sporanox), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Methadone (Dolophine), Nelfinavir (Viracept), Oral Contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol (such as Estinyl, Ovcon, and Ovral), Phenobarbital, Phenytoin (Dilantin), Rifabutin (Mycobutin), Rifampin (Rifadin and Rimactane), Ritonavir (Norvir), Saquinavir (Fortovase and Invirase), St. John's Wort, or Warfarin (Coumadin). Are there any special warnings about Efavirenz? If you develop delusions, inappropriate behavior, severe depression, or suicidal thoughts, call your doctor immediately. Efavirenz could be the cause, and may have to be discontinued. If you've suffered mental illness, substance abuse, or depression in the past, make sure the doctor is aware of this before therapy begins. Roughly half the people taking Efavirenz develop symptoms such as dizziness, lack of concentration, or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery while these symptoms occur. They are likely to improve with continued therapy, generally within 2 to 4 weeks. One of the most common side effects of Efavirenz is skin rash. Most rashes usually clear up on their own. However, for roughly one patient in 100, the drug causes a severe rash associated with blistering, skin peeling, and fever. If you develop this type of rash, call your doctor. Another Efavirenz side effect seen in some people receiving drugs for HIV is a redistribution of body fat. In a few patients, Efavirenz has toxic effects on the liver. If you've had hepatitis or must take other medications that could damage the liver, your doctor will probably check your liver function regularly. Efavirenz also has a tendency to raise cholesterol levels in some patients. If you have a cholesterol problem, your doctor may test for this as well. Remember that Efavirenz does not completely eliminate HIV from the body. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
