Viramune Drug Information

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Description of Articles in Viramune Drug Information

Viramune is a prescription medication that is used for treating HIV and AIDS. This eMedTV page explains how Viramune helps prevent HIV from spreading to uninfected cells, lists possible side effects of the drug, and offers general dosing information.

Abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue are some of the most common Viramune side effects. This eMedTV Web page also lists less common but potentially serious side effects, such as rashes, signs of liver damage, and changes in body fat distribution.

Viramune is primarily used for treating HIV and AIDS. As this eMedTV article explains, doctors may also recommend off-label Viramune uses, such as for preventing HIV infection in people exposed to HIV (i.e., a nurse who touches a contaminated needle).

The usual Viramune dosage for adults is 200 mg once daily for 14 days, then 200 mg twice daily thereafter. This eMedTV resource also provides Viramune dosing guidelines for children and offers information on how to take the medication.

Medicines that may cause negative Viramune drug interactions include methadone, warfarin, and efavirenz. This eMedTV segment lists other drugs that may interact with Viramune and explains what may happen if these drugs are taken together.

Viramune often causes life-threatening skin rashes. This eMedTV resource lists other possible side effects or complications that may occur with Viramune. Warnings and precautions on who should not take the drug are also included in this article.

Headache, nausea, or fatigue may occur as a result of a Viramune overdose. As this eMedTV page explains, it is not known how to best treat a Viramune overdose, but treatment may include certain drugs, "pumping the stomach," or supportive care.

Viramune appears to be safe for use during pregnancy. This segment from the eMedTV library contains more information about Viramune and pregnancy, and explains whether problems occurred when the drug was given to pregnant animals.

It is typically recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking Viramune. This eMedTV article provides more details on Viramune and breastfeeding, including information on why women with HIV or AIDS may want to avoid breastfeeding in general.

Viramune is not yet available in generic form. As this section of the eMedTV Web site explains, it is expected that several drug companies will begin manufacturing generic Viramune products as soon as the medication's patent expires in May 2012.