The Efavir Tablets belong to the class of Antiretroviral drugs, which are used in treating HIV infection. These are manufactured by Cipla, and contain Efavirenz (600 mg) as its active component.

 

Uses

Efavir Tablets are used together with other antiretroviral medications to treat HIV infections. 

It can also be used to prevent HIV after needlestick injuries or other potential exposure to HIV.

 

How do the Efavir Tablets work?

Efavirenz, the main component of Efavir Tablets, is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. Reverse transcriptase is a vital enzyme that HIV needs to multiply. By inhibiting this enzyme, the amount of HIV in the body decreased.

This medication does not cure HIV. When taken properly in a combination with other antiretroviral medicines, it can help reduce HIV to undetectable levels. When HIV is undetectable in the body, you cannot pass it on to another person, even through unprotected sex.

 

Side Effects

The commonly reported side effects of the Efavir Tablets are,

  • Rash

  • Headache

  • Nausea

  • Fatigue

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Confusion

  • Vertigo

  • Insomnia

  • Nightmares

  • Blurred vision

  • Memory and concentration problems

  • Liver problems

Serious side effects like depression, thoughts of suicide, and seizures could occur while taking this medication. Get help immediately in such cases.

The most common side effects posed by this medication are neuropsychiatric effects like disturbed sleep or cognitive impairment.  People may experience euphoria while taking this medication. If the side effects persist or seem to get worse, consult your doctor.

 

Risks to consider

If you have a history of seizures, let your doctor know, as Efavir Tablets may cause convulsions in such cases.

This medication may cause severe hypersensitivity reactions. If you have had a history of allergy to Efavirenz let your doctor know beforehand.

This drug is safe to consume during the first trimester of pregnancy.

This medicine has been found to pass into breast milk and may pass on to the breastfed children. Hence, avoid breastfeeding while on this medication.

Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do tasks that require good focus as this drug may make you feel dizzy, sleepy and affect your cognitive skills.

 

Dosage

Take the Efavir Tablets as prescribed on an empty stomach. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Name

Efavir

Salt

Efavirenz 

Manufactured By

Cipla

Packaging

30 capsules

Use

Anti hiv drug