Drug Title

Sustiva (Efavirenz)

Drug Uses

Sustiva is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) that is used in combination with other HIV medication to treat an HIV infection. It cannot be used alone to cure the infection.

Mode of Application

Sustiva can be taken by mouth on an empty stomach to avoid side effects. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. (Bedtime)

Do not stop without consulting your doctor. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Sustiva is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that is used to cure HIV infections. Sustiva blocks the release of reverse transcriptase which is used by the HIV virus to produce new DNA which it requires to multiply in the body.

So the virus is unable to replicate. Please note that Sustive does not kill the virus and is not a cure for HIV.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Sustiva then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C)) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, mental disorders, liver disease (such as hepatitis).

Sustiva may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or are pregnant

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Sustiva and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether Sustiva is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with Sustiva and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Sustiva should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Periodic lab tests including liver tests may be required to monitor your conditions.

Please note that Sustiva does not stop the spread of the virus via sexual contamination or blood contamination.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are Dizziness, drowsiness or trouble sleeping. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include mood/mental changes (e.g., depression, and in rare cases, thoughts of suicide), dark urine, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, fever, increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.