Efavir 200mg

Efavir contains efavirenz, an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection. Efavirenz belongs to the class of drugs known as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). It is usually prescribed in combination with other antiretroviral agents to control HIV infection and improve immune system function.

Composition:

Each Efavir capsule contains:

• Efavirenz: 200 mg

Uses:

Efavir is used for:

• The treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral medications.
• It helps to reduce the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load) and increase CD4 (T) cell counts, thereby enhancing immune function and slowing the progression of the disease.

Mechanism of Action:

• Efavirenz: Inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme by binding directly to the enzyme at a site distinct from the active site. This non-competitive inhibition disrupts the enzyme’s ability to convert viral RNA into DNA, thereby preventing the replication of the virus within host cells.

Dosage:

• Adults: The typical dosage for adults is 600 mg (three 200 mg capsules) taken once daily.
• Children and Adolescents: Dosage depends on body weight and should be determined by a healthcare provider.

Note: Efavirenz is preferably taken on an empty stomach to reduce the risk of side effects, particularly central nervous system effects. It is typically recommended to take the medication at bedtime.

Side Effects:

Common side effects:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
• Vivid dreams or nightmares
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Less common but serious side effects:

• Severe psychiatric symptoms (depression, suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety)
• Hepatotoxicity (liver damage, symptoms include jaundice, dark urine)
• Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• Lipodystrophy (changes in body fat distribution)
• Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol levels)

Recommendations:

• Take Efavir exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not adjust your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Take the medication on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime to minimize potential side effects.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Avoid consuming high-fat meals close to the time you take efavirenz, as this can increase drug levels in your blood and possibly worsen side effects.

Important Note:

• Be aware of the potential for severe psychiatric symptoms. If you experience depression, mood changes, or thoughts of self-harm, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Regularly monitor liver function and blood lipid levels as part of ongoing treatment with efavirenz.
• Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and inform their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits. Efavirenz has been associated with birth defects and should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and direct light.
• Keep all medical appointments and undertake regular blood tests to monitor your overall health and the efficacy of the treatment.
• Report any new symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider immediately.

This overview covers the essential aspects of Efavir (Efavirenz 200 mg Capsules). Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and treatment adjustments.