Information about Efavirenz

Generic Name : Efavirenz
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Efavirenz are provided here.

Pronunciation : Eff-aa-vy-renz

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Efavirenz, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y41.5 Therapeutic Classification : Antiretroviral Agents

Trade Names/Brand Names of Efavirenz

India :

More info >>>

International :

Sustiva

Why is Efavirenz Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), and active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) prescribed for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 either alone or with other medications.

When should Efavirenz not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients who are taking antimigraine, benzodiazepines, calcium channel blocker, GI motility agent, neuroleptic drugs, St. John's wort, and known hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Efavirenz?

Adult- PO- The recommended dose is 600 mg, once daily.

How should Efavirenz be taken?

It comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth, on an empty stomach.

What are the warnings and precautions for Efavirenz?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of high cholesterol, kidney problem, liver problems, seizures, mental illness, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or trouble in concentrating, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Since it does not stop the spread of HIV to others, avoid sexual contact, sharing of needles and injection supplies.

• Extreme caution needed in children less than 3 years old.

• Monitor liver function and cholesterol level while taking this medication.

♦Patient may develop Immune Reconstitution Syndrome.

What are the side effects of Efavirenz?

Most Common - Dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, sleeplessness and vomiting.
Body as a Whole - Allergic reactions, weakness and redistribution/accumulation of body fat.
Central Nervous System - Poor concentration, drowsiness, abnormal dreaming, emotion, confusion, agitation, memory loss, hallucinations, stupor, abnormal thinking and depersonalization.
Genitourinary - Breast enlargement in male.
Gastrointestinal - Constipation and malabsorption.
Heart - Flushing and palpitations.
Liver - Increase in liver enzyme and liver failure/inflammation.
Metabolic - Increased level of cholesterol in blood.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle pain and joint pain.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing.
♦ Skin - Redness of the skin, rash and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Eye and ENT - Abnormal vision and ringing in the ear.