MedicinerestrictedEssential

Efavirenz

Efavirenz is an antiretroviral tablet used with other HIV medicines to treat HIV-1 infection.

Clinical information

Common uses

HIV-1 infection, combined with other antiretrovirals (adults and children)

Common side effects

impaired concentration and abnormal dreams
rash
dizziness and headache
nausea and vomiting
tiredness and insomnia

Cautions

serious psychiatric symptoms (severe depression, suicidal thoughts) need urgent review
nervous system symptoms are common early and usually settle in 2–4 weeks
avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy
liver monitoring needed; can prolong the heart's QT interval

Interactions

elbasvir/grazoprevir (contraindicated)
voriconazole (both doses must be adjusted)
rifampin (efavirenz dose increased)
many CYP3A-metabolised medicines — levels can change either way
other QT-prolonging medicines

Pregnancy: avoid in the first trimester — risk of neural tube defects

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, Efavirenz tablets (Cipla) label, setid 92603fa5-7a2c-4bfb-9a70-aadb4fba952c (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations5

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Efavirenz	Capsule	200 mg	—	restricted
Efavirenz	Capsule	50 mg	—	restricted
Efavirenz	Oral Liquid	150 mg/5ml	—	restricted
Efavirenz	Tablet	600 mg	—	restricted
Efavirenz	Capsule	100 mg	—	restricted