Classification:
Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NNRTI)Form:
- 200mg tablet (white; oval)
- 50mg/5cc oral solution
Dosage:
One 200mg tablet twice per day or two tablets once daily.Initially, "lead-in" dosing is used to minimize the chance of side effects. One 200mg tablet is given daily for 14 days then increased to one 200mg tablet twice daily.
Instructions:
May be taken with or without food but taking with food may help reduce nausea. Doses should be taken as close to 12 hours apart as possible. If a dose is missed don't double up the next dose.Side effects to report to your doctor:
- Headache
- Nausea / vomiting / diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue or weakness
- Rash
- Most rashes occur within the first 6 weeks of therapy.
- If you develop a severe rash or a rash with fever, blisters, oral lesions, conjunctivitis, swelling, muscle or joint aches, or general malaise stop taking Viramune immediately and contact your doctor.
- Don't increase your dose to twice a day if rash develops within the first 14 days.
- Most rashes occur within the first 6 weeks of therapy.
Drug interactions or incompatibility:
Viramune may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. A latex condom should always be used to prevent HIV transmission.Special Warning:
Important Warning! - Nevirapine has been associated with severe liver toxicity in some cases, prompting a warning by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Liver function should be closely monitored when a person is taking Viramune (nevirapine), particularly during the first 12 weeks of treatment.Measuring the Health of Your Liver
For more information:
To learn more about Viramune, try About.com's Drug FinderMore HIV medication fact sheets
