Viramune

Also, it's important to talk to your doctor before combining Viramune with any of the following:

Antiarrhythmic heart medications such as disopyramide (Norpace)
Anticonvulsant (seizure) medications such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), clonazepam (Klonopin)
Antifungal medications such as itraconazole (Sporanox)
Blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin)
Calcium channel blocker (angina) medications such as diltiazem (Cardizem), nifedipine (Procardia), verapamil (Calan)
Cancer chemotherapy medications such as cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
Immunosuppressant medications such as cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
Migraine medications such as ergotamine (Cafergot)
Opiate agonists (narcotic) pain medications such as fentanyl (Duragesic)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant you may be at a higher risk of developing serious--even fatal--liver damage while taking Viramune. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately.

Avoid breastfeeding. HIV can be passed to a nursing infant through breast milk.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

For the first 14 days, the dose is 1 tablet a day. If no serious rash appears, the dose is then increased to 1 tablet twice a day. If you miss your doses for more than 7 days, the doctor will have to restart you at the lower initial dose.

CHILDREN

2 months to 8 years of age

For the first 14 days, the dose of oral suspension is 4 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight once a day. If no serious rash appears, the dose is then increased to 7 milligrams per 2.2 pounds twice a day.

8 years and older

For the first 14 days, the dose of oral suspension is 4 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight once a day. If no serious rash appears, the dose is then increased to 4 milligrams per 2.2 pounds twice a day.

For both adults and children, total daily dosage should never exceed 400 milligrams (2 tablets).

In certain cases your Viramune dosage may need to be adjusted. Be sure to tell the doctor if you develop a rash within the first 14 days of using Viramune or if you stop taking the drug for more than 7 days. Also tell the doctor if you're undergoing kidney dialysis.

If you develop hepatitis during Viramune treatment, you will have to stop taking the drug.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Viramune overdose may include:
  Dizziness, fatigue, fever, headache, insomnia, nausea, rash, reddened bumps on the skin, respiratory problems, swelling, vomiting, weight loss