efavirenz - oral, Sustiva (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking efavirenz, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: mental/mood conditions (such as depression, thoughts of suicide, psychosis), liver problems (such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis), drug/substance/alcohol abuse, seizures, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels.This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause trouble concentrating. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.A rash may be more common and serious in children taking efavirenz. Report any rash immediately. The doctor may prescribe an antihistamine for your child to take before efavirenz is started. Consult the doctor for more information.This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby, especially if taken during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should have a pregnancy test before starting efavirenz. It is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for 3 months after treatment. Consult your doctor about using at least 2 reliable forms of birth control (such as condoms with birth control pills) during treatment and for 3 months after the end of treatment (see also Drug Interactions section). If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Discuss the risks and benefits of HIV treatment and alternatives to efavirenz during pregnancy to decrease the risk of HIV transmission to the baby.It is not known if efavirenz passes into breast milk. Because breast milk can transmit HIV, do not breast-feed.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Need help identifying pills and medications?
Back to Medications Index