Viramune Side Effects  E-mail

Generic Name: nevirapine (na VAIR a peen)

It is recommended that you read the prescription insert that comes with Viramune before starting to take it.  The information on this site does not replace talking with a healthcare professional to discuss treatment options.

Safety Information


Women who have a CD4 count higher then 250 cells/mm3 and men with CD4 400 cells/mm3 are at a greater risk of liver problems.  They should not take Viramune unless your doctor has decided that the benefits outweigh the risks.

Viramune has been known, in rare cases, to cause severe liver damage resulting in death.  Seek medical attention if you develop the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), itching, clay-colored stools, and dark urine.

There have also been severe skin reactions that can be life threatening.  Call a doctor right away if you develop a rash, with or without fever, sores or lesions in your mouth, blistering, swelling, irritated eyes, joint aches.

Viramune can decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills; make sure to talk to your doctor about alternate forms of birth control.

Viramune Side Effects


Consult your doctor if any of the following side effects happen:

More Common

Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin
Skin rash
Fever, chills
Cough
Dark urine, diarrhea
Tiredness, weakness
Jaundice (yellow eyes and skin)

Less common

Hives
Loss of appetite

Rare

Pain, numbness, tingling in extremities, burning or prickly sensations
Sleepiness, drowsiness

There also may be other symptoms that can occur but do not require medical attention.  Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects are bothersome:

More common

Stomach pain
Diarrhea
Headache

Viramune Contraindications


The following medications may cause adverse reactions or may need a dosage adjustment while taking Viramune:

  • Rifampin, Rifabutin
  • Ketoconazole, Itraconazole
  • Saquinavir, Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Ritonavir
  • St. John’s wort, Hypericum perforatum
  • Methadone
  • Oral Contraception

 

 
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