Efavirenz Oral

In Depth

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:

rash
blisters
peeling skin
fever
itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
severe dizziness
trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Efavirenz Oral 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.

To decrease your risk of spreading HIV disease to others, always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

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. Efavirenz decreases the effectiveness of hormonal birth control products, so you must always use a barrier protection with these products. 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.

Efavirenz Oral Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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