Efavirenz: how to take it safely
Stocrin, Sustiva
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats HIV.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Take it every day, even when you feel well.
When to take it
Take it once a day at bedtime.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, at bedtime.
What to avoid
- Alcohol.
- Taking it with a fatty meal.
- Driving or using machines if you feel dizzy.
- Pregnancy in the first 3 months, unless your doctor says so.
- Missing doses or stopping without advice. This can make the virus resistant and the medicine stop working.
- Tell your pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you take.
Possible side effects
Dizziness, vivid dreams, trouble sleeping, rash. These often ease after a few weeks.
Get help if
Severe rash, yellow skin or eyes, low mood, thoughts of harming yourself, or hallucinations: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.