Indicated for: HIV-1 infection
Route of administration: oral
Substance: nevirapine (non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor)
ATC: J05AG01 (Antiinfectives for systemic use | Direct acting antivirals | Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors)
Nevirapine is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It belongs to the class of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), which work by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, essential for HIV replication.
Nevirapine is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to reduce viral load and increase CD4 cell counts, thereby improving immune system function. It is also used to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV during childbirth.
It is administered orally, in tablet or suspension form, with the dosage adjusted based on the patient's age and weight. Treatment typically begins with a lower dose for the first 14 days to reduce the risk of side effects.
Common side effects include skin rashes, fever, nausea, fatigue, and headaches. In rare cases, it may cause severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatotoxicity, or liver failure.
Nevirapine is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment or a history of severe allergic reactions to the medication. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential, and patients should report any adverse reactions immediately.