Drug Dosing Tool: Viramune (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

Viramune (nevirapine)

Type of Drug: Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor

Nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors prevent HIV from using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to make copies of itself. These drugs are also known as NNRTIs, nonnucleosides or "nonnukes."

Note: To reduce side effects when starting this medication, patients should take one 200 mg pill daily for the first 14 days, and then follow the schedule below.

Approved adult dosing

one 200 mg tablet, two times a day

Morning
Viramune
Evening
Viramune

Note: Can be taken as 2 pills once a day after the first 14 days, if prescribed by a doctor; this is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Notes on taking this medication

No food restrictions, can take with or without food
Viramune interacts with many other drugs; persons using Viramune with those drugs may need an adjustment to their dose of the other drugs or avoid certain combinations; consult your medical provider

Side effects

Rash: rarely, rash may be severe and may require hospitalization; rash usually appears within first 3 weeks of starting drug
Liver inflammation; rarely severe liver damage; liver test results should be monitored closely for the first 18 weeks that you take Viramune
Nausea; abdominal discomfort

See accompanying chart: Tips for Common Side Effects

My doctor's instructions

Disclaimer:

This information is not meant to substitute for advice from your medical provider or pharmacist. If you have any questions about your medication dosing, talk to your medical provider or pharmacist.

Drug Dosing Toolkit

Viramune (nevirapine)

Approved adult dosing

Morning

Evening

Notes on taking this medication

Side effects

My doctor's instructions

Disclaimer:

ContentsScroll over drug name to see other names for the drug.