Where is Atazanavir used?

Atazanavir is used in infants and children with HIV to help control the infection. This medicine is known as protease inhibitors that help reduce the amount of HIV in the body. It is to help the patient’s immune system work well. Atazanavir lowers the chance of getting HIV complications and improves your child’s quality of life. This is usually used in combination with other certain HIV medications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication. This is supplied as a capsule for oral use.

How does Atazanavir work?

• Atazanavir is one of the medications that lower the amount of virus in the body.
• This helps the immune system to recover and slow down or stop the progression of the disease from HIV to AIDS.
• It is to slow the breakdown of Atazanavir by the liver which makes it stay in the body for longer. This boosts its level in the blood and affects the virus.

How is Atazanavir taken?

• Atazanavir is to be taken as directed by your doctor. Give this medication usually once a day.
• Remember to take it the same way each day.
• The recommended starting dose of this medication depends on the medical condition and response to the treatment.
• Each dose must be taken in the right dose, not more or less.
• This medication should not suddenly stop without the consent of your doctor. It may cause another complication or may worsen your current condition.

What are the possible side effects of Atazanavir?

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness

Let your doctor right away if you have these serious side effects such as:

• Joint pain
• Severe tiredness
• Persistent muscle aches or weakness
• Vision changes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe headache

What are the precautions in taking Atazanavir?

• Before using Atazanavir, let your doctor know if you ever had an allergic reaction to it. Tell also if you have any allergies. This product may have an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
• If you have any medical history especially of liver problems, kidney problems, heart problems, or a certain bleeding problem tell it to your doctor right away.
• Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications including herbal supplements or vitamins.
• This form of Atazanavir is not usually recommended for use in adults. This should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• People taking this medicine may gain weight and may also experience increases in the levels of sugar in their blood.
• This is not recommended for use in people having hemodialysis for kidney failure.
• Under six years of age, this is not to be given because its safety and effectiveness have not been studied yet.
• Do not use this for the treatment of other diseases.
• Atazanavir may increase the level of cholesterol and fats in the blood. HIV infection can also cause this effect. This could increase your child’s risk for heart problems. Inform your doctor if your child has heart problems or other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease.