Nevirapine tablets
What do nevirapine tablets do?
NEVIRAPINE (Viramune(R)) is an antiviral drug used in persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Nevirapine may help delay the symptoms of advanced HIV infection. Nevirapine is more useful if combined with other drugs used to treat the HIV virus. It will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS.
What should my health care professional know before I take nevirapine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• liver disease, including hepatitis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to nevirapine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• breast-feeding
• pregnancy or recent attempts to get pregnant
How should I take this medicine?
Take nevirapine tablets by mouth. You may take nevirapine with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with nevirapine?
• cimetidine
• dronabinol, THC
• erythromycin
• hormonal birth control medicines, including birth control pills
• ketoconazole
• medicines for anxiety or depression including alprazolom, triazolam, or zolpidem
• medicines for seizures including carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin
• methadone
• rifabutin
• rifampin
• St. John's wort
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects might I notice from taking nevirapine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• abdominal pain
• dark yellow or brown urine
• fever
• hives
• mouth blisters or lesions
• muscle or joint aches
• severe dizziness
• skin rash or peeling skin
• swelling of the eyelids or face
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellow color of eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• headache
• itching
• nausea, vomiting
• tingling or numbness in the hands or feet or around the mouth