What is atazanavir?
Atazanavir is an antiviral medication in a group of HIV medicines called protease (PRO-tee-ayz) inhibitors. Atazanavir prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cells from multiplying in your body.
Atazanavir is used to treat HIV, which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Atazanavir is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.
Atazanavir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How should I take atazanavir?
Take atazanavir exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Take atazanavir with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Atazanavir should be taken with food. Swallow the capsule whole.
It is important to use atazanavir regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
HIV/AIDS is usually treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor. Every person with HIV or AIDS should remain under the care of a doctor.
Store atazanavir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Symptoms of an atazanavir overdose may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
What should I avoid while taking atazanavir?
Avoid using antacids within 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take atazanavir.
If you also take didanosine, take it 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take atazanavir.
Taking atazanavir will not prevent you from passing HIV to other people through unprotected sex or sharing of needles. Talk with your doctor about safe methods of preventing HIV transmission during sex, such as using a condom and spermicide. Sharing drug or medicine needles is never safe, even for a healthy person.
Atazanavir side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking atazanavir and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
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increased urination or extreme thirst;
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severe pain in your side or lower back, painful urination, blood in your urine;
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easy bruising or bleeding;
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signs of a new infection, such as fever or chills, cough, or flu symptoms; or
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jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Keep taking the medication and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
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nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;
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numbness or tingling, especially around your mouth;
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joint pain;
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headache, mood changes; or
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changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).
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