Sustiva (Efavirenz)

Do’s

• Sustiva should be taken by mouth on an empty stomach as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily at bedtime. Taking it with food increases the blood level of this medication, which may raise the risk of certain side effects.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.
• Swallow the medication whole with water. If swallowing the capsule is difficult, it may be opened and the contents mixed gently in a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce, grape jelly, or yogurt. 
• After taking the mixed medication, add more food to the empty mixing container and swallow the remaining mixture to ensure the entire dose is consumed. 
• For babies who cannot eat solid foods, the contents may be mixed in infant formula and drawn up into an oral syringe to be given to the baby.
• Continue taking this medication (and other HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• For the best effect, take this medication at evenly spaced times, and to help remember, take it at the same time every day.

Don’ts

• Do not eat any food for 2 hours after taking this medication.
• Do not skip any doses, increase your dose, take this drug more often than prescribed, or stop taking it (or other HIV medicines) even for a short time unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your healthcare provider may have adverse effects, such as increasing the amount of virus, making the infection more difficult to treat, or worsening side effects. 

Common Side Effects: 

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Trouble concentrating
• Rash
• Sleep problems (insomnia)
• Strange dreams
• Changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist) 

These are not all the possible side effects of Sustiva. If you experience any side effects or have concerns, consult your healthcare provider for guidance. 

Sustiva may cause serious psychiatric symptoms, including confusion, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, extreme fear, hallucinations, or unusual behavior. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these side effects, even if you have had them before.

Note that dosing at bedtime may improve the tolerability of nervous system symptoms. If you experience any nervous system symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Rash is a potential side effect of Sustiva, seek medical attention if you experience a rash, especially if it is severe. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to rash, any skin reactions should be monitored and reported.

Monitoring hepatic function prior to and during treatment with Sustiva is recommended. Sustiva is not recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C).

Sustiva may interact with other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use before starting Sustiva.

Ensure that Sustiva is taken in combination with other antiviral medications as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Consult a healthcare provider for any questions or concerns regarding the warnings and precautions associated with Sustiva.