Information about Viramune (Nevirapine)
Viramune (Nevirapine) is an antiretroviral medication that is primarily used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It belongs to a class of drugs known as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). By inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, Nevirapine helps to reduce the ability of the HIV virus to replicate in the body, leading to lower viral loads.
Product Highlights
- It is used to treat HIV-1, particularly in combination with other antiretroviral drugs.
- It can be used in pregnant women with HIV to help prevent transmission to the baby during childbirth.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Nevirapine helps to lower the amount of HIV in the blood, which improves immune function and reduces the risk of HIV progression to AIDS.
- When used in pregnant women with HIV, it helps reduce the likelihood of passing the virus to the baby during childbirth.
- By suppressing the virus, it helps manage the disease and improves life expectancy for people living with HIV.
Direction of Use
- The usual starting dose for adults is 200 mg once daily for the first 14 days, followed by 200 mg twice daily.
- The dosage for children depends on their weight and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- The tablets should be taken with or without food, and the oral suspension should be shaken well before use.
- It is essential to take the medication consistently as prescribed, and doses should not be skipped.
Safety Concerns
- Nevirapine can cause severe liver toxicity. Liver function tests should be monitored frequently, especially in the first 18 weeks of therapy.
- Skin rashes are common, and severe rashes can be a sign of a more serious reaction, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Any rash should be reported to a doctor immediately.
- Some people may have allergic reactions, including fever, malaise, and swollen glands.
- Nevirapine can interact with other medications, including those used for contraception, and can affect the metabolism of other drugs.
Avoid Viramune (Nevirapine) If
- Do not use Nevirapine in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment due to the risk of liver toxicity.
- Avoid Nevirapine in patients who have had a hypersensitivity reaction to the drug or similar medications in the NNRTI class.
- Nevirapine may not be recommended for use in certain stages of pregnancy without doctor supervision due to risks of liver toxicity.
- Patients who have developed severe skin reactions (such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) or hypersensitivity to the drug should avoid it.
