Efavirenz (Oral Route)

Efavirenz is used in combination with other medicines for the treatment of the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Efavirenz is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). It works by lowering the amount of HIV in the blood.

Efavirenz will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS, however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems that usually result from AIDS or HIV disease. Efavirenz will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medicine may continue to have some of the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Capsule
• Tablet

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage forms (capsules or tablets):
  • For treatment of HIV infection:
    • Adults—600 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken with other medicines.
    • Children 3 months of age and older (by weight)—
      • 3.5 to 5 kilograms of body weight: 100 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 5 to 7.5 kilograms of body weight: 150 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 7.5 to 15 kilograms of body weight: 200 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 15 to 20 kilograms of body weight: 250 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 20 to 25 kilograms of body weight: 300 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 25 to 32.5 kilograms of body weight: 350 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 32.5 to 40 kilograms of body weight: 400 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
      • 40 kilograms of body weight or over: 600 mg once a day, taken with other medicines.
    • Children up to 3 months of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.