Brief information about it:
Nevirapine is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Uses:
· Treatment of HIV/AIDS: It is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to slow the progression of HIV infection and reduce the risk of opportunistic infections.
· Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT): Nevirapine is used to prevent the transmission of HIV from an infected mother to her child during childbirth.
Mechanism of action:
Nevirapine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). It works by directly blocking the HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing the virus from replicating.
Elimination half life:
The half-life of nevirapine is approximately 45 hours.
Route of Administration:
Nevirapine is typically administered orally in tablet form.
Side effects:
Common side effects of nevirapine include:
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
More serious side effects, although rare, can include:
- Severe skin reactions
- Liver damage
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Dose:
The dosage of nevirapine varies depending on the individual and the specific treatment regimen. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare provider for any adjustments.
Precautions:
· Liver Function: Nevirapine can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes is necessary.
· Skin Reactions: Nevirapine can cause severe skin reactions, so it’s important to report any rash or skin irritation to your healthcare provider immediately.
· Drug Interactions: Nevirapine can interact with other medications, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
