What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Efavirenz?

Efavirenz

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Molecule Description

Efavirenz is a ‘non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor’ type of antiretroviral medicine used in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) which can cause AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

Uses

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection

Contraindications

When should one not use Efavirenz

Do not take this medicine if:
You are allergic to this medicine
You have severe liver disease or heart disease

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Skin rash
Loose motions
Vomiting
Itching
Giddiness
Jaundice
Drowsiness
Pain in stomach
Difficulty in sleeping
Headache
Tired feeling
Anxiety

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

It is probably unsafe to take this medicine during pregnancy as this can harm the unborn baby.

Breast Feeding

HIV infection can pass through breast milk to the baby. Also, this medicine passes in breast milk, therefore avoid breastfeeding when on this medication. Consult your doctor for advice.

Driving

Taking this medicine may lead to the cause of decreased alertness and spinning sensation. Therefore avoid driving when on this medication.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol may lead to dizziness or a spinning sensation. Avoid alcoholic beverages while on this medication.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

If you have both, HIV infection and Hepatitis B, then it is very important not to stop this medical treatment without talking to your concerned doctor first
You have a history of mental illness, liver disease or fits

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Efavirenz is an antiretroviral medicine that prevents the multiplication of HIV, thereby reducing the count of the virus in blood.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Antibiotics
Antidepressants
Heart rhythm medicines
Any other HIV medicine
Cholesterol-lowering medicines
Heart or BP medicine
Hepatitis C medicine
Seizure medicine (anticonvulsants)

Interactions with food items

No specific interactions with food have been reported yet.

Dietary Restrictions

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage

Overdose

The effects of an overdose may be lethal and need immediate medical attention. The symptoms of overdose can be – sleeping difficulties, nausea, vomiting, irritability, anxiety, etc. If you happen to take an overdose of the medicine, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as early as you remember. Skip the missed dose and do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical and surgical history and if you have any of the following conditions:Liver disease, Hepatitis B or CSeizuresKnown history of mental illness such as depression, anxiety, etc.High cholesterolKidney diseaseHeart diseaseInform if you are pregnant, lactating or planning a pregnancy

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