Atazanavir Oral Powder (ATAZANAVIR POWDER PACKET - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • HIV
  • prevent infection

Brand Name(s): Reyataz

Generic Name: Atazanavir

Instructions

Mix the medicine in a small amount of liquid or soft food and then swallow it.

Eat or drink the medicine immediately after mixing with soft food or liquid. Do not store for later use.

Take the medicine with food.

Do not take didanosine (Videx) 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking this medicine.

If you are also taking ritonavir, take the ritonavir dose right after this medicine.

This medicine is usually combined with another medicine to treat your condition.

Ask your doctor if any of your medicines need to be taken at the same time.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Discard medicine mixed with food after each dose. Do not save to use later.

This medicine does not stop the spread of viruses that are passed through the blood or during sex.

Always use condoms during sex.

Do not share needles or other personal objects such as shavers or toothbrushes.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Do not take antacids 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking this medicine.

Medicines that lower stomach acid (used to treat indigestion, heartburn or ulcers) may prevent this medicine from working properly.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and heart attack. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

This medicine may affect areas where fat is stored in the body. This may change your body shape.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine may contain aspartame (phenylalanine). Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have a medical condition that requires you to limit or avoid this ingredient.

Do not take St. John's wort while on this medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • headaches
  • nausea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest or jaw pain
  • dizziness
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • irritability
  • kidney problems
  • lightheadedness
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • loss of movement anywhere on the body
  • muscle weakness
  • joint or muscle pain
  • nervousness
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • shortness of breath
  • difficulty speaking
  • difficulty swallowing
  • sweating
  • persistent or unusual thirst
  • increased urinary frequency
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • unexpected or extreme weight loss

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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