Efavir – 200 mg

EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE contains Efavirenz which belongs to a group of medicines called Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE is used with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus) infection in adults and children (aged 3 months and above).

EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE is not recommended for use in patients allergic to Efavirenz. It is also not recommended for use in patients suffering from heart disease (such as changes in heart rate/rhythm, slow heartbeat, severe heart disease), and/or severe liver disease.

Before taking EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE, inform your doctor if you have a history of convulsion/fits/seizures, kidney problems (such as renal impairment), and/or other liver problems (such as chronic hepatitis B/C).

EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy and in women planning for pregnancy since the medicine may cause harm to the unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential should effective contraceptive barriers while in treatment with EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE to prevent accidental pregnancy. The medicine is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.

EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE is not recommended for use in children (aged less than 3 months) and also in children weighing less than 3.5 kg. The medicine is advised to be used with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years/above) after consulting the doctor.

The most common side effects of taking EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE are skin rash, abnormal dreams, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, and/or vomiting.  Consult your doctor if any of these symptoms worsen.

Uses Of Efavir 200mg Capsule

• Treats HIV infection in adults and children (aged 3 months and above) when combined with other antiretroviral medicines

How Efavir 200mg Capsule Works

EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE works by binding directly to the viral reverse transcriptase enzyme (substance used by HIV to make duplicate copies) which results in inhibition of it synthesis thus stopping the virus from producing new copies of virus in affected individuals.

Directions For Use

Take EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicines with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dose and duration for you depending upon your age, body weight and disease condition.

Side Effects Of Efavir 200mg Capsule

How To Manage Side Effects

Headache:

If EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE causes headache, then take rest and drink plenty of fluids. Try to avoid drinking alcohol. Ask your doctor to recommend a painkiller. Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE. If it lasts more than a week or becomes severe, then consult and inform your doctor.

Nausea and vomiting:

Take EFAVIR 200MG CAPSULE with/just after a meal. Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating oil rich/spicy foods, sugary snacks and drinks. Avoid drinking too much liquid along with your meals, and drink slowly in between meals. Consult your doctor if the condition worsens.

Diarrhea:

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Try to avoid taking any medicine on your own to treat diarrhea. Consult and inform your doctor if the symptom worsens.

Dizziness:

Try to rest and get enough sleep. Try to avoid driving or operating any tools or machines while you feel dizzy. Limit consumption of alcohol, as it can aggravate dizziness. Consult and inform your doctor if the symptom worsens.

Itchy Skin:

Try to pat or tap your skin instead of scratching it. Hold a damp towel to cool your skin. Wear loose clothing and avoid tight clothes, or clothes made from wool or synthetic fabrics. Avoid using perfumed soaps, deodorants or moisturizers and use a skin softener regularly.