IMPORTANT WARNING:   

Why is this medication prescribed?     

Delavirdine is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with or without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Delavirdine is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Delavirdine does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?     

Delavirdine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take delavirdine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, they may be dispersed in water. To prepare, add four tablets to at least 3 ounces of water, allow to stand for a few minutes, and then stir until a uniform dispersion occurs. Drink the delavirdine-water mixture right away. Rinse the glass and swallow the rinse to ensure that you have gotten the entire dose.

If you are taking antacids, wait at least 1 hour between taking the antacid and taking delavirdine.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to delavirdine.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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