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Efavirenz Tablet

Efavirenz is an antiretroviral agent that blocks the viral replication. It is used to decrease the amount of viruses (viral load) to as low as possible, for as long as possible.

What is this medication used for

Efavirenz is an antiretroviral agent that blocks the viral replication. It is used to decrease the amount of viruses (viral load) to as low as possible, for as long as possible.

Dosage and How to Use

When should I take the medication?

Efavirenz is usually taken once daily. It is usually given in combination with other antiretroviral agents to achieve significant decrease in viral multiplication.

How should it be taken?

Efavirenz should be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals), preferably at bedtime. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Missed a Dose

Missing doses make Efavirenz less effective and may also make the virus resistant to Efavirenz and other possible antiretroviral agents. This could make the virus harder to treat.

If you forgot to give your child the medication, give the dose as soon as you remember and then continue to give it as per normal. Otherwise, if it is close to the time for your child’s next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the usual time. Do not double or increase the dose.

If your child vomits within 15 minutes of administration, give another dose if possible.

Side Effects, Precautions, Contraindication

What side effects can this medicine cause? What can I do about them?

Common side effects that may occur are

Dizziness. To get up slowly from a sitting or lying position. Try to avoid tasks or actions that require alertness such as riding a bicycle, rollerblading or other sport activities.

Headache. Take painkillers such as paracetamol to relieve pain.

Stomach discomfort, nausea and/or vomiting. Eating small frequent meals or sucking on hard, sugar-free candy may help to reduce these side effects.

Nightmares/Vivid dreams. Dreams usually occur initially when your child first started taking the medication. It usually stops after a few days or weeks. They may last longer in some people. If they become bothersome, try taking the dose earlier in the evening.

Insomnia. Take it earlier in the night if it affects your sleep.

Feeling tired or fatigue

Loose stools or diarrhoea.

Mild to moderate skin rash. Taking antihistamines may improve tolerability.

High cholesterol level, high triglyceride level. Changes in body fat may occur (Redistribution/accumulation of body fat in areas such as the back of the neck, breasts or abdomen)

Inform your doctor if the side effects become severe and bothersome. Report to your doctor immediately if your child experiences any of the following symptoms:

Severe rash associated with blistering/ulceration or fever.

Signs of low mood (depression), feeling unhappy or inattentive/unresponsive most of the time.

Darkening of the urine, yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Efavirenz may affect the cholesterol level and liver enzymes level. Your doctor will routinely monitor the levels prior to the treatment initiation and while your child is on this medication.

Other precautions:

Some medication may reduce its efficacy, or increase its toxicity. Do not give your child any other medications or herbal products without first consulting your doctor.

Handling and Storage

Store at room temperature

Additonal Information

Other name: Stocrin^®

This article answers some common questions about Efavirenz. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.