Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets)

What is Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets)?

Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) containing the active ingredient efavirenz belongs to a class of medications called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). The medication works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the body and preventing the cells from multiplying to allow the immune system to work better. It must be used along with other medications to decrease the chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer.

How does Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) work?

Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) (also known as Sustiva) contain efavirenz, a non-nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), which is only effective against RNA viruses (retroviruses) like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It works by inhibiting the action of the viral-specific enzyme reverse transcriptase (RT), which is needed for the virus to be able to replicate. Retroviruses convert RNA to DNA, which is then integrated into the DNA of infected immune cells so that the virus can replicate. Efavirenz in Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) acts by binding to a specific site on the RT enzyme and blocks its action in a manner that is noncompetitive with nucleosides (precursors to the building blocks of DNA and RNA), thereby preventing the conversion of viral RNA to DNA. This action prevents the integration of virus into the DNA of the infected CD4+ immune cell, which inhibits the replication of HIV so that no more virus can be produced; and this reduces the viral load (amount of virus). Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) slow down the replication of HIV within your body but does not kill the virus already incorporated in the CD4+ cells or prevent the spread of the infection to others.

When should Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) not be used?

You should not use Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) if you:

• are allergic to efavirenz or any ingredients in Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets)
• are pregnant or are breastfeeding
• have liver disease
• are using Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) as a single treatment as it is intended for use only as part of combination therapy
• are taking medicines that interact with Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets), including: other antiretrovirals, such as, amprenavir, indinavir, atazanavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, the antibiotics rifampicin, rifabutin and clarithromycin, the antifungals voriconazole and itraconazole, cholesterol lowering statins like simvastatin and atorvastatin, the antiepileptic carbamazepine, oestrogen containing oral contraceptives, methadone for opioid dependence, the dietary supplement St. John's Wort, the antidepressant sertraline, calcium channel blockers like diltiazem for angina and hypertension, the antihistamine terfenadine, cisapride for reflux, triazolam for anxiety, the sedative midazolam, ergot derivatives for migraine, the antipsychotic pimozide, bepridil for angina

How should Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) be taken?

You should take your Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) swallowed whole with a glass of water without food, once a day preferably on an empty stomach at bedtime to reduce problems with side effects.  The dose you take depends on your body weight and your doctor’s recommendation.   You should continue to take your Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) regularly for as long as your doctor recommends, and you condition should be monitored. Do not suddenly stop taking your Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) as this may increase risk of HIV resistance.

Missed dose of Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets)

If you miss a dose of Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) take it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) Side effects

Be aware of the possible side effects that Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) can cause. Certain reactions are listed here:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Vertigo
• Lipodystrophy
• Concentration difficulties

Your physician will regularly conduct various medical assessments so that your condition can be monitored. All side effects (no matter how mild) must be thoroughly reported. Rarely, serious reactions will occur. Should you experience bloody urine, abnormal behavioral disturbances, significant appetite reduction, speech problems, unexplained weigh increases or any other severe side effects, see your physician immediately.

Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) Warnings

1. The medication can be used to treat HIV but cannot be used to cure HIV or decrease the risk of transmitting the HIV virus to other people.
2. Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
3. Efavir (Efavirenz 600mg Tablets) is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
4. The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed.

• Availability: In Stock
• Model: Efavir 600
• Brand: Cipla