Viramune Side Effects

Changes in body fat distribution, rashes, and signs of liver damage are potentially serious side effects that have been reported with Viramune. Most reactions to the drug, however, are minor and do not require medical attention in most cases. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include nausea, fatigue, headache, and diarrhea.

An Introduction to Viramune Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Viramune® (nevirapine); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Viramune. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Common Side Effects Seen With Viramune

Viramune has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common Viramune side effects included:
 
  • Nausea -- in up to 8.7 percent of people
  • Fatigue -- up to 4.7 percent
  • Headaches -- up to 3.6 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 2 percent
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 2 percent
  • Muscle pain -- up to 1.2 percent.
     
Viramune Side Effects Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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