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Viread |
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What is Viread and why is it prescribed? Viread is one of the drugs prescribed to fight HIV. Viread staves off the attack by interfering with HIV reverse transcriptase, an enzyme the virus needs to reproduce. Viread lowers the amount of HIV in the blood and may help increase the number of T cells, important agents of the immune system that kill microscopic foreign invaders. It is used in combination with other anti-HIV drugs when these drugs are not effective by themselves. Viread does not completely eliminate HIV or totally restore the immune system. Notify your doctor immediately of any changes in your general health. How should you take Viread? Follow your doctors directions for taking Viread. Be sure to take Viread once a day, every day. Set up a regular schedule so you won't forget, and always get a new supply when the drug runs low. If you don't keep the drug in your system, the virus may develop resistance. Take Viread with meals. Food increases the amount of Viread that reaches the bloodstream. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Viread at room temperature. Throw away any medication that is out of date. Are there any Viread side effects? Viread side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Viread side effects may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Viread? If Viread 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. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Viread with Acyclovir (Zovirax), Cidofovir (Vistide), Ganciclovir (Cytovene), Valacyclovir (Valtrex), or Valganciclovir (Valcyte). If you are taking didanosine (Videx), you should take your dose of Viread 2 hours before or 1 hour after the didanosine. Are there any special warnings about Viread? Viread should be used with caution if you have liver disease. The drug has been known to cause liver damage and a buildup of lactic acid in the blood, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition. If you are a woman, are overweight, have liver disease, or have used Viread for a long time you are more likely to develop this condition. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of lactic acid buildup, including shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and stomach/intestinal pain. If you have a kidney condition, make sure your doctor knows. People with severe kidney problems shouldn't take Viread. Viread has not been approved for children. |
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