What is Rescriptor (Delavirdine) prescribed for?

Human immunodeficiency virus, or rather HIV, is a virus that causes AIDS. This disease weakens an individual’s ability to fight off infections. And it is usually contracted through unprotected sex or sharing of needles.

Rescriptor is used with other HIV medications to help control the HIV infection. Overall, it helps to decrease the amount of the HIV in your body so your immune system can function better. By taking this medication, it also lowers your chance of getting any HIV complications such as any new infections and cancer, and generally improves your quality of life.

Delavirdine belongs to a class of drugs known as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). It is not a cure for a HIV infection. To prevent any risk of spreading HIV, do all of the following: Continue to take all of your medications exactly as prescribed to you. Always use a condom and dental dams during all sexual activity. And do not share personal items such as needles, toothbrushes, and razors. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, consult with your doctor or pharmacist on the matter. Take this medication directly has prescribed, and make sure to read the instructions on the prescription label.  And if you have any concerns, speak with your medical professional.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, usually 3 times a day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or bite the tablet. And it cannot be dissolved.  However, If you have a condition of little or no stomach acid (achlorhydria), you should take delavirdine with an acidic beverage such as orange or cranberry juice.

Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment, as well as any other medications you may take.

Take this medication on a regular basis to gain the most benefit. Do not increase your dose or take it longer than what has been prescribed to you.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Delavirdine; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform your doctor of your Medical history, especially if you have ever had the following; liver problems.

While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Nausea, diarrhea, headache, or tiredness may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.

As your immune system gets stronger, it can begin to fight off infections you already had, possibly causing disease symptoms to come back. You could also have symptoms if your immune system becomes overactive. This reaction may happen at any time (soon after starting HIV treatment or many months later). Get medical help right away if you have any serious symptoms, including: unexplained weight loss, severe tiredness, muscle aches/weakness that doesn't go away, headaches that are severe or don't go away, joint pain, numbness/tingling of the hands/feet/arms/legs, vision changes, signs of infection (such as fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, trouble breathing, cough, non-healing skin sores), signs of an overactive thyroid (such as irritability, nervousness, heat intolerance, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, bulging eyes, unusual growth in the neck/thyroid known as a goiter), signs of a certain nerve problem known as Guillain-Barre syndrome (such as trouble breathing/swallowing/moving your eyes, drooping face, paralysis, trouble speaking).

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (such as depression), signs of liver problems (such as persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, severe tiredness, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).

Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medication (such as increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor, as well as the possible use of exercise to reduce this side effect.

Delavirdine can commonly cause a rash that is usually not serious. A rash may occur within 1 to 3 weeks after you start delavirdine treatment. It appears mainly on the upper body and arms, but may also appear on the neck and face. After consultation with the doctor, most people can continue taking delavirdine and treat the rash if it is not severe. Non-serious rashes usually last less than 2 weeks. However, a severe rash or a rash with signs of a severe reaction requires immediate medical attention. Signs of a severe reaction that usually appear within the first 3 days of a serious rash include: fever, blisters, mouth sores, eye redness/swelling, swelling in other areas of the body, or muscle/joint pain.

Since you may not be able to tell a common rash apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction, always seek immediate medical attention if you develop any rash or any of these symptoms.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.