Evotaz (Atazanavir And Cobicistat)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Evotaz Used For?
Evotaz is a medication that combines atazanavir and cobicistat, used alongside other anti-HIV medications to manage HIV infection in adults.
Primary Uses
Evotaz is primarily used to treat adults infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
How It Works
Atazanavir is a protease inhibitor that blocks HIV protease, an enzyme necessary for HIV replication. Cobicistat enhances the effectiveness of atazanavir by increasing its levels in the body.
Good to know: Evotaz is not addictive.
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How to Take Evotaz
It is important to take Evotaz exactly as prescribed by your doctor, with food to ensure proper absorption.
Dosage Instructions
Take Evotaz as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Important: Never double your dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Severe abdominal pain
- Changes in fat distribution
- Joint or muscle pain
- Mouth ulcers
- Severe skin rash
- Changes in heart rhythm
- Fainting
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Kidney stones
- Liver problems
- Lactic acidosis
- Severe allergic reactions
Impulse Control Issues
There are no specific mentions of impulse control issues related to Evotaz.
Important Warnings
Before using Evotaz, it is crucial to be aware of certain warnings and contraindications.
Who Should Not Take Evotaz
Do not use Evotaz if you are allergic to atazanavir, cobicistat, or any of its ingredients. Avoid it if you have liver disease.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of liver problems, kidney issues, diabetes, or heart conditions with your doctor before starting Evotaz.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Evotaz is not recommended during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your doctor as HIV can be transmitted through breast milk.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Evotaz may interact with several other medications, affecting how they work.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products as they may affect how Evotaz works.
- Other HIV medications (e.g., saquinavir, indinavir)
- Antimycobacterial medicines (e.g., rifampin)
- Sildenafil or tadalafil for pulmonary hypertension
- Cisapride
- Alfuzosin
- Asthma medications containing salmeterol
- Cholesterol medications (e.g., lovastatin)
- Sleeping medications (e.g., midazolam)
- Certain antidepressants
- Calcium channel blockers
- Herbal products containing St John's wort
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Evotaz.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol use while taking Evotaz.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Ensure you understand how Evotaz affects you before driving or using machinery, especially if you feel dizzy.
Storage
Store Evotaz tablets in a cool, dry place below 25°C, and keep them in their original container tightly closed.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Evotaz, seek immediate medical help by contacting your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Evotaz helps control HIV infection but does not cure it. It may take some time to see the full benefits.
Yes, Evotaz should be taken with food to ensure proper absorption.
No, Evotaz is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Evotaz without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to increased viral resistance.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Evotaz.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Evotaz.
Elderly patients should use Evotaz with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.