Nevirapine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Labeled uses

Nevirapine tablets, USP are indicated for use in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. This indication is based on one principal clinical trial (BI 1090) that demonstrated prolonged suppression of HIV-1 RNA and two smaller supportive trials, one of which (BI 1046) is described below. Additional important information regarding the use of Nevirapine tablets, USP for the treatment of HIV-1 infection: Based on serious and life-threatening hepatotoxicity observed in controlled and uncontrolled trials, Nevirapine tablets, USP should not be initiated in adult females with CD4+ cell counts greater than 250 cells/mm3 or in adult males with CD4+ cell counts greater than 400 cells/mm3 unless the benefit outweighs the risk [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. The 14-day lead-in period with Nevirapine tablets, USP 200 mg daily dosing must be strictly followed; it has been demonstrated to reduce the frequency of rash [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. If rash persists beyond the 14-day lead-in period, do not dose escalate to 200 mg twice daily. The 200 mg once-daily dosing regimen should not …