What is Sustiva ?
Sustiva belongs to a class of drugs called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Sustiva is used in combination with other HIV medications for the treatment of HIV infection. In order for Sustiva to work effectively it MUST be taken in combination with other HIV medications.

How does Sustiva work ?
Sustiva binds to a specific HIV enzyme resulting in the inhibition of viral replication. When Sustiva is taken in combination with other HIV medications the goal is to prevent the virus from further weakening the immune system. If Sustiva is effective then you should expect to see an increase in T-cells (CD4 immune cells) and decrease in HIV viral load. Not everybody responds to Sustiva, however you can improve the chance that Sustiva will work by taking all your medications everyday.

What are the possible side effects of Sustiva ?
The most common side effects of Sustiva are dizziness, sleep disturbances, abnormal dreams (sometimes nightmares), changes in mood or personality, and rash. Not everyone experiences these side effects. If side effects develop from Sustiva they usually begin in the first few weeks and usually stop 2-3 weeks later.

How should Sustiva be taken ?
Sustiva comes as 50mg, 100mg, and 200 mg capsules and a 600 mg tablet. The adult dose is 600 mg taken once a day, usually at bedtime. Sustiva can be taken with or without food.

It is very important to try not to miss or skip any doses. The fewer doses a person skips the fewer opportunities the HIV virus has to develop resistance to the medication.

What does Sustiva look like ?
The 600mg tablet is gold with SUSTIVA printed in red on both sides of the tablet. The 200 mg capsule is gold in color with the name Sustiva written on one end of the capsule.

Are there any special precautions ?
Yes Sustiva must be used cautiously in Women because it has the potential to cause birth defects. Therefore, it is very important that if you are pregnant or want to become pregnant that you tell your medical provider before starting Sustiva. If you find out that you are pregnant while taking Sustiva tell your medical provider immediately.

Are there potential drug interactions with Sustiva ?
Yes, therefore it is very important to tell your medical provider and pharmacist other medications you are taking.