A non-nucleoside antiviral drug that inhibits reverse transcriptase by binding directly to the enzyme, thus blocking the synthesis of retroviral DNA and preventing viral replication. It is used in
combination therapy for the treatment of infections in patients with advanced or progressive HIV disease. Nevirapine is available as tablets on prescription only.
Side effects: include rash (which should be reported to a doctor), nausea, fatigue, fever, headache, somnolence, and hepatitis.
Precautions: nevirapine should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease and in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions with other drugs:
Ketoconazole: nevirapine reduces the plasma concentration of ketoconazole and the two drugs should not be taken together.
Oral contraceptives: their contraceptive effect is reduced.
Proprietary preparation: Viramune.
