Reyataz (Atazanavir)

What is Reyataz?

Reyataz is an antiviral drug, which belongs to the group of HIV medicines, commonly known as protease inhibitors.

What is Reyataz used for?

Reyataz is indicated for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is responsible for causing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

How does Reyataz work?

Reyataz works by suppressing the multiplication of human immunodeficiency virus cells in the body. This, in turn, strengthens the immune system.

How to use Reyataz

Take Reyataz exactly as per the instructions provided by your doctor. Follow the instructions carefully given on the label of the medicine. Do not take excess amount of Reyataz and avoid taking it for a longer period.

Do not take the drug without food. Also, do not crush or break the pill; rather swallow it whole. To get satisfactory results, it is essential to take it on a regular basis.

Reyataz warnings and precautions

If you are an antacid or didanosine consumer, then take it at least one hour before or two hours after you consume Reyataz. While taking this medication, you must avoid unprotected sex. Also, avoid sharing needles, razors or toothbrushes.

Prior to taking Reyataz, tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney or liver disease, bleeding disorder, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, or if you ever used a protease inhibitor earlier.

Reyataz does not prevent transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus to another person. You must discuss with your doctor about safety measures that are to be taken during sex.

This medication can cause harm to an unborn or nursing baby. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women must consult their doctors before taking this medicine. If you become pregnant during the treatment, intimate your doctor right away.

What do I do if I have missed a Reyataz dose?

If you have missed your Reyataz dose, you should take the missed dose immediately. Never consume two doses at one time.

What do I do if I have taken a Reyataz overdose?

If you have taken a Reyataz overdose, you should seek emergency medical help.

Reyataz interactions

You are advised not to take Reyataz along with ritonavir and steroid medicine called fluticasone. You must discuss with your doctor, if you want to use another medication for HIV or if you wish to use another treatment for allergic reactions.

Antibiotics such as clarithromycin and rifabutin; digoxin including digitalis, Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps; antifugals like traconazole and ketoconazole; antidepressants such as amitriptyline, imipramine, trazodone and others are expected to interact with Reyataz.

Calcium channel blockers like amlodipine, diltiazem, felodipine, nifedipine or verapamil; cholesterol-lowering medicine such as atorvastatin can also interact with Reyataz.

Medicines like cyclosporine, sirolimus or tacrolimus are responsible for weak immune system. Other medicines, which are expected to interact with Reyataz are, Cordarone, Quinaglute, and Quinidex.

Reyataz side effects

If you see signs of allergic reactions like hives; breathing problems; swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, immediately seek medical help.

Contact your doctor, if you face serious side effects like frequent urination, excessive thirst, painful urination, and blood in your urine, rigorous pain in your side or lower back, easy bruising, bleeding, fever, sore throat, or headache.

Signs of new infection, such as fever, cough; symptoms of flu and jaundice are also some of the grave side effects of Reyataz.

Less serious side effects are numbness, itching around mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mild joint pain, and mood changes. It also includes changes in shape or location of fat in the body.