

nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)

Brand Names: Viramune, Viramune XR

Generic Name: nevirapine

What is nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)?


Nevirapine is used to treat HIV, the virus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Nevirapine is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, and should not be used to prevent HIV.

Nevirapine oral solution (liquid) is for use in adults and children as young as 15 days old. Nevirapine extended-release tablets are for use in adults and children who are at least 6 years old.



Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: joint or muscle pain, fever, mouth sores, facial swelling, blistering skin rash, flu symptoms, swollen glands, feeling weak or tired, severe tingling or numbness, pain or burning when you urinate, swelling in your legs or feet, cough, chest pain, trouble breathing, or swelling in your lips, tongue, or throat.

Nevirapine can cause life-threatening effects on the liver, especially in women. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these liver symptoms while taking nevirapine: nausea, loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, tiredness, fever, unexplained muscle pain or weakness, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Nevirapine may also cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions. Stop taking this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: a fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, and a red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling. This type of reaction is a medical emergency.

Nevirapine may increase your risk of certain infections or autoimmune disorders by changing the way your immune system works. Symptoms may occur weeks or months after you start treatment with nevirapine. Tell your doctor if you have:

  • cold sores, sores on your genital or anal area;

Common side effects may include:

  • skin rash; or



Your blood will need to be tested often during the first few months you are taking nevirapine.

Nevirapine can cause severe or fatal liver problems. Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have: nausea, loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, tiredness, fever, unexplained muscle pain or weakness, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Nevirapine may also cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions. Stop taking nevirapine and get emergency medical help if you have: a fever, swelling in your face or tongue, skin pain, or a rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to nevirapine, or if you have moderate to severe liver disease.

Some medicines can interact with nevirapine and should not be used at the same time. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use any of the following drugs:

To make sure nevirapine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:





Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I take nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Starting with a low dose can reduce your risk of skin reactions.

Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about how often to take this medicine.


Nevirapine can be taken with or without food.



While using nevirapine, you will need frequent blood tests (especially during the first 18 weeks of treatment).




Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


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What happens if I miss a dose (Viramune, Viramune XR)?


If you have not taken nevirapine for 7 days in a row, call your doctor before you start taking the medicine again. You may need to start with a lower dose.

What happens if I overdose (Viramune, Viramune XR)?


What should I avoid while taking nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)?



What other drugs will affect nevirapine (Viramune, Viramune XR)?

Many drugs can interact with nevirapine, or make it less effective. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

  • antiviral medication to treat hepatitis C;
  • an antibiotic or antifungal medicine;
  • birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy;
  • a blood thinner (warfarin and others);
  • ergot medicine (dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, and others);
  • heart or blood pressure medication;
  • medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection; or
  • seizure medication.

This list is not complete and many other drugs can interact with nevirapine. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Give a list of all your medicines to any healthcare provider who treats you.

Where can I get more information (Viramune, Viramune XR)?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about nevirapine.


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Reviewed on 7/24/2019

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