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Nevirapine

Antiretroviral

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What is nevirapine?

Nevirapine (also called Viramune®) is used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This medicine is one of a group called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). Nevirapine can slow down how soon you will see symptoms or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. Nevirapine is available as a 200-mg tablet.

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Possible side effects

  • Rash (the most common side effect); If you experience any type of rash, stop taking nevirapine right away and call the doctor or nurse.
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Low blood counts
  • Unusual tired feeling

    These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take nevirapine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Store nevirapine tablets at room temperature.
  • Blood tests can find some side effects, such as low blood counts. It is very important that you come to the clinic regularly for blood tests.
  • Some medicines may affect the way nevirapine works. These medicines include St. John’s wort, rifampin, and rifabutin.
  • Nevirapine may affect the way other medicines work. These medicines include itraconazole, ketoconazole, and birth control pills.
  • Always tell the doctor if you are taking any of these medicines or if you start taking any new medicines while you are taking nevirapine.

Drug at Home:

  • This medicine is usually taken one (1) time a day for the first 2 weeks of therapy. After 2 weeks, the medicine is taken 2 times a day – one (1) time in the morning and one (1) time at night.
  • Take nevirapine with or without food. Taking the medicine right after you eat a meal may help prevent upset stomach.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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