Nevirapine

Nevirapine — Uses and Benefits

Nevirapine is used mainly for the treatment and control of HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children, as part of combination antiretroviral therapy
• Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV during childbirth, as advised by the treating doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Nevirapine blocks an enzyme called reverse transcriptase that HIV needs to multiply inside human cells
• By reducing viral multiplication, it helps lower the amount of virus in the blood and supports the immune system
• It works best when combined with other antiretroviral medicines, never alone

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure HIV infection or AIDS
• It is not used to treat other viral infections like hepatitis, influenza, or common cold
• It does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact or blood exposure
• It is not a substitute for safe practices to prevent HIV transmission

How to Use Nevirapine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• It can be taken with or without food
• Do not stop, skip, or change the dose without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to drug resistance
• Shake the oral suspension well before use, if prescribed in liquid form
• Continue taking other antiretroviral medicines along with this as advised

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Try to take doses at the same time every day to maintain steady levels in the body

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep the oral suspension bottle tightly closed when not in use

Nevirapine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash
• Nausea
• Headache
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Fever

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Muscle or joint pain
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Numbness or tingling sensation

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash with blistering, peeling skin, or mouth sores (may indicate Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain (signs of liver problems)
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, or throat (allergic reaction)
• Unusual bleeding, severe weakness, or persistent vomiting

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Nevirapine — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under the supervision of a doctor experienced in HIV treatment.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to nevirapine or any of its ingredients
• Have moderate to severe liver disease
• Have previously stopped nevirapine due to severe rash, liver problems, or allergic reaction

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have hepatitis B or C infection
• Are taking any other medicines, herbal products, or supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Hormonal contraceptives (may reduce effectiveness)
• Rifampicin and other anti-tuberculosis medicines
• Certain antifungal medicines like ketoconazole
• St. John's Wort and other herbal supplements
• Other antiretroviral medicines, unless specifically prescribed together

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can lead to drug resistance and treatment failure; always consult your doctor first.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

It may be used during pregnancy under medical supervision, especially to prevent transmission of HIV to the baby.

Will this medicine cure HIV completely?

• No, it helps control the virus and improve quality of life but does not cure HIV infection.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.