Efavir (Efavirenz)

What is this drug

Efavir (Efavirenz)  is an antiviral drug which is used in treatment of retroviruses like the HIV. More precisely, it is used almost exclusively in treatment of HIV and it is actually the preferred treatment, along with tenofivir/emtricitabine treatment. It is also used as a prophylactic in people who are at greater risk of contracting HIV. The generic name is efiravenz and it is also marketed as Stocrin and Efavir.

Classification and Mechanism of Action

Generic Sustiva is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, NNRTI for short and as such, it prevents the spreading of the HIV in the system. It is therefore one of the cornerstones of the HIV treatment together with Truvada.

Looking after your drug

Keep Efavir (Efavirenz) away from children in a cool, dark and dry place. If your medication has expired, throw it away and buy new batch of Efavir (Efavirenz) online.

How to take the medication

Efavir (Efavirenz) needs to be taken exactly as prescribed. Do not take larger doses and make sure that you take your drug regularly. It is best taken on an empty stomach unless you are instructed otherwise by your doctor. Your treatment may include other anti-HIV drugs and you need to take them all properly to achieve the best results. You should visit your doctor regularly. This medication may cause false positives on drug tests. Laboratory staff should know you are taking this drug.

Dosage

Usual recommended dosage is 600 mg orally once a day.

Overdose

If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical assistance.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip it if your next dose is soon. DO not take a double dose.

Warnings and Precautions

Taking Efavir (Efavirenz) will not prevent you from passing the virus to other people. Talk to your doctor about safe ways to prevent transfer of the virus. You will need to come in for regular blood tests when using this drug. If you notice any psychiatric or mood changes when taking this drug, contact your doctor at once. If you become pregnant during the regimen, stop using the drug at once and inform the doctor ASAP.

Possible Side Effects

Mild side effects of Generic Sustiva may include: mild nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, troubles concentrating, headaches, mild skin rash, tiredness, insomnia, changes in adipose tissue. Serious side effects may include: signs of liver damage, severe skin reactions, mood or behavior changes, cold sores, chest pain, dry cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, anxiety, irritability, weakness, balance issues, eye movement problems, troubles speaking and swallowing, severe lower back pain, loss of bladder control, enlarged thyroid, changes to sex drive. These are not all of the side effects.

Treating HIV

Generic Sustiva is used in treatment of HIV and as prophylaxis in people who are at increased risk of contracting the infection. If you are infected with HIV, it is very likely that your doctor will prescribe this medication as it is the first-line treatment in combination with some other medications.

When the drug should not be used

Generic Sustiva should not be used if you are allergic to efiravenz. If you are pregnant, your doctor will most likely not prescribe this drug as it can harm the fetus.

How long should you take the drug

You have to take Efavir (Efavirenz) for as long as the doctor prescribed it for you.