Reyataz (Atazanavir)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Reyataz Used For?
Reyataz is a medication that contains atazanavir and is used in combination with other anti-HIV medications to manage HIV infection.
Primary Uses
Reyataz is primarily used to treat HIV infection.
How It Works
Reyataz blocks HIV protease, an enzyme necessary for the virus to multiply, thereby reducing the amount of HIV in the blood.
Good to know: Reyataz is not addictive.
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How to Take Reyataz
Take Reyataz exactly as prescribed by your doctor, typically with food.
Dosage Instructions
For new patients, the usual dose is 400 mg (2 x 200 mg capsules) once daily or 300 mg daily with 100 mg of ritonavir. For those previously treated, the usual dose is 300 mg daily with ritonavir.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
Important: Do not take a double 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
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Severe abdominal pain
- Changes in body fat distribution
- Joint and muscle pain
- Mouth ulcers
- Severe skin rash
- Changes in heart rhythm
- Fainting
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Gallbladder disorders
- Kidney stones
- Liver problems
- Lactic acidosis
- Allergic reactions
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before using Reyataz.
Who Should Not Take Reyataz
Do not take Reyataz if you have severe liver disease or are allergic to atazanavir or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of liver problems, kidney disease, diabetes, or heart issues with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Reyataz should only be used if clearly needed.
Drug Interactions
Reyataz may interact with other medications, affecting their effectiveness.
- Rifampicin
- Sildenafil (for pulmonary arterial hypertension)
- Irinotecan, apalutamide, encorafenib, ivosidenib (cancer treatments)
- Cisapride
- Alfuzosin
- Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital)
- Salmeterol
- Lovastatin, simvastatin, lomitapide
- Midazolam, triazolam
- Pimozide, lurasidone
- Ergotamine
- St John's wort
- Indinavir
- Elbasvir/grazoprevir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Reyataz.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while taking Reyataz.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Some patients may experience dizziness; be careful when driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Reyataz capsules in a cool, dry place below 25°C and keep them tightly closed in their original container.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reyataz helps control HIV but does not cure it; it may take time to see its full effects.
Yes, Reyataz should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
No, Reyataz is not addictive.
Do not stop taking Reyataz without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to complications.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Reyataz.
Weight changes can occur, but specific effects vary by individual.
Elderly patients should discuss their health status with their doctor before taking Reyataz.
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.