Atazanavir is a prescription medication that is used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Atazanavir is an antiviral medication and works by preventing HIV from multiplying in the body. Atazanavir is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take atazanavir with food.
• Swallow this medication whole without crushing or chewing.
• While taking atazanavir, drink plenty of fluids.
• If this medication is prescribed for a child, speak to your doctor if the child’s weight changes as medication dosage may also need to change.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Your medical history particularly of heart problems, hepatitis C, hepatitis B, liver disease, kidney disease, kidney stones, gallstones, bleeding disorders, diabetes or if you are on dialysis.
• If you are pregnant or become pregnant, your dosage may need to be altered.

You should also know:

• Women with HIV should not breast-feed. The virus can be passed to an infant through breast-milk.
• This medication can lessen the effectiveness of hormonal birth control. Speak to your doctor about appropriate methods of birth control.
• This medication does not prevent you from passing HIV to others. Avoid unprotected sex and do not share razors, toothbrushes or needles.

Common side effects of atazanavir include but are not limited to:

• Depression
• Sleep problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever, stomach pain, or diarrhea
• Tingling, numbness, or burning pain in the hands or feet
• Changes to the location or shape of body fat

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of atazanavir:

• Sudden dizziness or feeling like you might pass out
• Severe pain in your side or lower back
• Urine that is painful or bloody
• Menstrual changes
• Swelling in the neck or throat
• Impotence
• A weakness or prickly feeling.
• Speaking or swallowing problems
• Balance problems
• Problems with eye movement
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Signs of a new infection such as weight loss, diarrhea, night sweats, fever, swollen glands, cold sores, coughing, or wheezing.
• Signs of high blood sugar including headaches, fruity breath odor, blurred vision, dry mouth, or increased thirst or urination.
• Signs of a liver or gallbladder problem including nausea, vomiting, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice, itching, upper stomach pain, or fever.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of atazanavir?

If you miss a dose of atazanavir, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if your next dose is within six hours, then skip your missed dose. Refill your prescription before it runs out.

What is the strength of atazanavir?

Atazanavir is available in strengths of 150mg, 200mg, and 300mg.