Delavirdine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of human immunodeficiency viral infection. This drug will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS, but it interferes with the reproduction of HIV and seems to slow down the destruction of the immune system.
Problems resulting from AIDS or HIV disease can be delayed by this drug but it will not prevent transmission of HIV to other people. People who receive this drug may continue to have other problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. This drug requires a prescription.
Before taking this drug, the risks and benefits for your body should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. It is still unknown whether this drug causes different side effects or problems in the elderly than it does in younger adults. Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate.
Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding. Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits before taking this drug while breastfeeding. Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other drug such as:
Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as Achlorhydria, or Liver disease.
3 Proper Usage
Take this drug with our without food. You should know what drugs are contraindicated to delavirdine. Both of the 100 milligram and 200 milligram tablets should be swallowed whole. The 100 milligram tablet can be dissolved in a glass of water if it cannot be swallowed whole while the 200 milligram tablet must be swallowed whole.
Antacid drugs should not be taken within 1 hour of the time you take this drug to ensure its complete absorption into the body. Patients with achlorhydria are recommended to take this drug with a glass of orange juice or cranberry juice.
To prevent any side effects, take this drug exactly as directed in the label or as prescribed by your healthcare professional. The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug.
Adults with HIV infection are given 400 mg three times a day in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. Your healthcare professional will decide on the other drugs needed and how much you will use. Use and dose in children younger than 16 years of age must be determined by your healthcare professional.
A missed dose should be taken as soon as possible. However, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. Store the drug in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Dispose any outdated or expired drugs and ask your healthcare professional for the proper disposal of the drugs.
4 Precautions to Take
Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug.
Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur. Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the drug, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
If any of the following side effects persists, or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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