Viread

Why should Viread not be prescribed?

If Viread gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use it.

Special warnings about Viread

Remember that Viread does not eliminate HIV from the body. The infection can still be passed to others through sexual contact or blood contamination.

Viread should be used with caution if you have liver disease. The drug has been known to cause liver damage and a buildup of lactic acid in the blood--a dangerous and potentially fatal condition. If you are a woman, are overweight, have liver disease, or have used Viread for a long time you are more likely to develop this condition. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of lactic acid buildup, including shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and stomach/intestinal pain.

If you have a kidney condition, make sure your doctor knows. People with severe kidney problems shouldn't take Viread.

You should know that some people taking HIV medications experience a change in fat distribution, with increased fat in the upper back and neck and loss of fat from the arms, legs, and face.

Viread has not been approved for children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Viread

If Viread is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Viread with the following:

Acyclovir (Zovirax)
Cidofovir (Vistide)
Didanosine (Videx)
Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Although there's no evidence that Viread can harm a developing baby, the drug has not been adequately studied during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

Do not breastfeed. HIV appears in breast milk and can infect the nursing infant.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The dose is 300 milligrams (1 tablet) taken once a day with a meal.

Overdosage

No information on overdose of Viread is available. However any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.