Efavir 600 mg Tablet 30s

Side Effects of Efavir 600 mg Tablet 30s

Rash including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and erythema multiforme; CNS effects e.g. dizziness, headache, insomnia, somnolence, abnormal dreams, fatigue, impaired concentration. Nausea, less frequently, vomiting, diarrhoea, hepatitis, depression, anxiety, psychosis, amnesia and ataxia, stupor, vertigo, abdominal pain, hepatic failure, pancreatitis, convulsions, gynaecomastia, pruritus, blurred vision.

Drug Interactions

Hormonal contraceptives; antibacterial e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, clarithromycin; enzyme inducers. St. John's wort may decrease serum level. Ethanol (hepatic and CNS adverse effects). Potentially Fatal: Life-threatening adverse effects when used with terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, midazolam, triazolam and ergot alkaloids.

Contraindications

Severe hepatic impairment; hypersensitivity; lactation.

Mechanism of Action

Efavirenz, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor with activity against HIV, blocks the RNA-dependent and DNA-dependent polymerase activities including HIV replication. Absorption: Absorbed after oral doses; plasma concentrations peak after about 5 hr. Distribution: >99% bound to plasma proteins. Metabolism: Metabolised mainly by CYP3A4 and CYP2B6. Excretion: About 14-34% of a dose is excreted in the urine as metabolites, and 16-61% in the faeces.

Special Precautions

Mild to moderate liver disease; renal impairment. Monitor liver enzymes and cholesterol. Discontinue if severe skin rash or fever develops; known or suspected hepatitis B or infection. History of mental illness or seizures; elderly. Pregnancy. Children.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

Content Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before use.