Brand name:

Viread

Why is Viread prescribed?

Viread is one of the drugs prescribed to fight HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus that causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). HIV attacks the immune system, slowly destroying the body's ability to fight off infection. Viread staves off the attack by interfering with HIV reverse transcriptase, an enzyme the virus needs to reproduce.

Viread lowers the amount of HIV in the blood and may help increase the number of T cells, important agents of the immune system that kill microscopic foreign invaders. It is used in combination with other anti-HIV drugs when these drugs are not effective by themselves.

Most important fact about Viread

Viread does not completely eliminate HIV or totally restore the immune system. There is still a danger of serious infections, so you should be sure to see your doctor regularly for monitoring and tests. Notify your doctor immediately of any changes in your general health.

How should you take Viread?

Be sure to take Viread once a day, every day. Set up a regular schedule so you won't forget, and always get a new supply when the drug runs low. If you don't keep the drug in your system, the virus may develop resistance. Take Viread with meals. Food increases the amount of Viread that reaches the bloodstream.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Throw away any medication that is out of date.

Viread side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Viread.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weakness

Why should Viread not be prescribed?

If Viread gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use it.

Special warnings about Viread

Remember that Viread does not eliminate HIV from the body. The infection can still be passed to others through sexual contact or blood contamination.

Viread should be used with caution if you have liver disease. The drug has been known to cause liver damage and a buildup of lactic acid in the blood--a dangerous and potentially fatal condition. If you are a woman, are overweight, have liver disease, or have used Viread for a long time you are more likely to develop this condition. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of lactic acid buildup, including shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and stomach/intestinal pain.

If you have a kidney condition, make sure your doctor knows. People with severe kidney problems shouldn't take Viread.

You should know that some people taking HIV medications experience a change in fat distribution, with increased fat in the upper back and neck and loss of fat from the arms, legs, and face.

Viread has not been approved for children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Viread

If Viread is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Viread with the following:

Acyclovir (Zovirax)
Cidofovir (Vistide)
Didanosine (Videx)
Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Although there's no evidence that Viread can harm a developing baby, the drug has not been adequately studied during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

Do not breastfeed. HIV appears in breast milk and can infect the nursing infant.

Recommended dosage for Viread

ADULTS

Overdosage

No information on overdose of Viread is available. However any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.