Buy Generic Efavirenz Online

Generic Efavirenz Information

Introduction

Efavirenz is a non‑nucleoside reverse‑transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV‑1) infection. In Hong Kong, Efavirenz is listed on the Hospital Authority formulary and is prescribed by specialists in infectious diseases and HIV clinics. The medication contains the single active compound Efavirenz and belongs to the anti‑viral, HIV medication group. It is administered orally and is typically combined with two nucleoside reverse‑transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) to achieve durable viral suppression.

What is Efavirenz?

Efavirenz is the generic version of the original brand‑name products Sustiva (Bristol‑Myers Squibb) and Stocrin (ViiV Healthcare). Both brand names contain the same active compound, Efavirenz, and meet the same regulatory standards for purity, potency, and bioavailability.

Our online pharmacy offers this generic alternative, providing the same clinical efficacy at a lower price point for patients in Hong Kong who need reliable access to antiretroviral therapy.

• Active ingredient: Efavirenz (150 mg tablet)
• Therapeutic class: Non‑nucleoside reverse‑transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)
• Developed by: Originally discovered by DuPont and later marketed by Bristol‑Myers Squibb; now produced by multiple qualified generic manufacturers worldwide.

How Efavirenz Works

Efavirenz binds directly to the reverse‑transcriptase enzyme of HIV‑1. This enzyme converts viral RNA into DNA, a critical step for viral integration into host cells. By occupying a hydrophobic pocket near the enzyme’s active site, Efavirenz induces a conformational change that blocks polymerisation of the DNA strand. The result is:

• Inhibition of viral replication: New viral particles cannot be produced efficiently.
• Reduced plasma viral load: Sustained suppression lowers the risk of disease progression and transmission.

Pharmacokinetic characteristics relevant to its therapeutic effect:

• Absorption: Peak plasma concentrations are reached 3–5 hours after oral intake; high‑fat meals increase exposure modestly, so Efavirenz may be taken with or without food.
• Half‑life: Approximately 40–55 hours, allowing once‑daily dosing.
• Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP2B6, with contributions from CYP3A4. Genetic variants in CYP2B6 can affect drug levels, a factor considered in some Asian populations.
• Elimination: Predominantly through hepatic metabolism; <2 % is excreted unchanged in urine.

Conditions Treated with Efavirenz

• HIV‑1 infection (adult patients) – Efavirenz is approved as part of first‑line cART regimens (e.g., Efavirenz + tenofovir + emtricitabine). Clinical trials such as ACTG 5202 demonstrated non‑inferior viral suppression compared with protease‑inhibitor‑based regimens.
• Pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in specific research protocols – While not a standard PrEP agent, Efavirenz has been investigated in combination regimens for high‑risk groups.

Relevance to Hong Kong
According to the Centre for Health Protection, approximately 8,000 people in Hong Kong live with HIV. The government’s “Treatment as Prevention” policy recommends early initiation of cART, for which Efavirenz‑based regimens remain a cost‑effective option, especially when generic formulations are used.

Patient Groups Most Likely to Benefit

• Antiretroviral‑naïve adults who require a once‑daily regimen with a high genetic barrier to resistance.
• Patients with co‑existing tuberculosis – Efavirenz demonstrates fewer drug‑drug interactions with rifampicin than many protease inhibitors, making it a preferred NNRTI in co‑treated patients.
• Individuals preferring a low‑pill‑burden regimen – The long half‑life permits single‑tablet dosing, improving adherence.

Contraindicated or cautionary groups

• Pregnant women (first trimester) – Efavirenz is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category D due to potential teratogenicity; alternative agents are recommended during early pregnancy.
• Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh C) – Reduced metabolism may lead to toxic concentrations.
• Known CYP2B6 poor metabolizers – May require dose adjustment or alternative therapy to avoid elevated plasma levels and neuropsychiatric side effects.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Central nervous system (CNS) effects: dizziness, vivid dreams, insomnia, anxiety, and mood changes (reported in 30–50 % of patients).
• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
• Rash: mild maculopapular eruptions, usually self‑limited.

Rare

• Severe psychiatric reactions: depression, suicidal ideation, or psychosis (incidence <1 %).
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated transaminases, rarely progressing to hepatitis.
• Hypersensitivity: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (extremely rare).

Serious

• Drug‑induced liver injury: May require discontinuation and supportive care.
• Seizures: Reported in patients with underlying seizure disorders or concurrent medications lowering seizure threshold.

Clinically relevant drug–drug interactions

• Rifampicin: induces CYP2B6, reducing Efavirenz concentrations; dose increase to 600 mg may be required under close monitoring.
• Azole antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole): inhibit CYP3A4, modestly increasing Efavirenz levels.
• Nevirapine: additive NNRTI effect; concurrent use is contraindicated.
• St. John’s Wort: strong CYP3A4 inducer, may lower Efavirenz exposure.
• Hormonal contraceptives: Efavirenz may reduce plasma levels of ethinyl‑estradiol, potentially decreasing contraceptive efficacy; supplemental barrier methods are advised.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all prescribed and over‑the‑counter medicines, herbal products, and supplements.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dose: 600 mg (one tablet) taken once daily, preferably in the evening with or without food.
• Renal impairment: No dosage adjustment required for mild‑to‑moderate renal dysfunction.
• Hepatic impairment: For Child‑Pugh A–B, continue 600 mg; for Child‑Pugh C, consider dose reduction or alternative agent.

Missed dose
If a dose is missed and it is within 12 hours of the scheduled time, take the tablet immediately. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double‑dose.

Overdose
Symptoms may include severe CNS depression, vomiting, or prolonged seizures. Immediate medical attention is required. Supportive care—airway management, monitoring of vital signs, and activated charcoal if presentation is early—are standard measures. No specific antidote exists.

Precautions

• Avoid alcohol excess, which can potentiate CNS side effects.
• Do not start or stop Efavirenz without physician guidance, as abrupt discontinuation may lead to viral rebound and resistance.
• Women of child‑bearing potential should use effective contraception and discuss pregnancy plans with their clinician.

Buying Efavirenz from Our Online Pharmacy

Efavirenz can be purchased securely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. We specialize in delivering verified, high‑quality generic medicines to patients who encounter supply limitations or high costs in conventional channels.

• Affordability: Prices are set close to manufacturer cost, typically 30–50 % lower than brand‑name equivalents.
• Verified quality: All batches are sourced from WHO‑prequalified or Hong Kong‑licensed suppliers and undergo strict quality checks.
• Discreet delivery: Packages are sealed, unmarked, and delivered via express couriers (7 days) or regular airmail (≈3 weeks) to protect privacy.
• Online‑only convenience: After submitting a valid prescription, registration is completed within minutes, and pharmacists are available to answer medication‑specific queries.

Our pharmacy operates as a broker service, partnering with overseas licensed pharmacies that hold appropriate regulatory approvals. This model enables us to provide reliable access to Efavirenz for patients who may lack insurance coverage or face stock shortages locally, while fully complying with Hong Kong’s import regulations for personal use.

FAQ

• Is Efavirenz covered by the Hospital Authority’s public drug scheme in Hong Kong?
  Yes, Efavirenz is listed on the Hospital Authority formulary and is provided at no direct cost to eligible patients receiving care in public hospitals. Private patients or those seeking a generic alternative may need to arrange procurement through a pharmacy or online service.

• Can I store Efavirenz tablets in a refrigerator?
  No, Efavirenz should be stored at controlled room temperature (15‑30 °C). Refrigeration is unnecessary and may cause condensation, potentially affecting tablet integrity.

• What should I do if I experience vivid dreams while taking Efavirenz?
  Vivid or frightening dreams are a common CNS side effect. Taking the medication at bedtime with a small snack may reduce occurrence. If dreams are disturbing or impair sleep, contact your clinician; an alternative NNRTI may be considered.

• Are there any known differences between Efavirenz formulations sold in the US, EU, and Asia?
  The active ingredient and dosage strength (150 mg per tablet) are identical across regions. In some Asian markets, tablets may be manufactured with different excipients to accommodate local regulatory standards, but clinical efficacy remains unchanged.

• Is it legal to import a personal supply of Efavirenz for private use in Hong Kong?
  Yes, Hong Kong permits importation of a three‑month personal supply of prescription medicines for personal use, provided a valid prescription is retained. Our online pharmacy assists customers in complying with these import rules.

• Can Efavirenz be taken together with antacids or calcium supplements?
  Efavirenz absorption is not significantly affected by antacids or calcium. However, if you are using multiple oral medications, maintain a consistent spacing (e.g., take Efavirenz at bedtime and other medicines at separate times) to simplify adherence.

• Does Efavirenz interact with herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort?
  Yes, St. John’s Wort is a potent inducer of CYP3A4 and may lower Efavirenz concentrations, potentially compromising viral suppression. Patients should avoid this supplement unless directed by a healthcare professional.

• What monitoring is required after starting Efavirenz?
  Baseline liver function tests, HIV viral load, CD4 count, and mental health assessment are recommended. Follow‑up labs are typically performed at 4 and 12 weeks, then every 3–6 months, or as clinically indicated.

• Can Efavirenz be used in children or adolescents?
  Efavirenz is approved for use in adolescents ≥12 years and weighing ≥35 kg, usually as part of a fixed‑dose combination tablet. Pediatric dosing differs and should be managed by a specialist.

• If I travel abroad, will my Efavirenz supply be recognized by pharmacies there?
  Most countries Efavirenz as a standard antiretroviral. Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your treating physician to facilitate pharmacy dispensing, especially in jurisdictions requiring local prescription verification.

Glossary

Reverse‑Transcriptase Inhibitor

A class of drugs that block the HIV enzyme reverse‑transcriptase, preventing the virus from converting its RNA into DNA and thus halting replication.

CYP2B6

A liver enzyme that metabolises many drugs, including Efavirenz. Genetic variations can alter drug levels and risk of side effects.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)

The clinical practice of measuring specific drug concentrations in blood at designated intervals to maintain a constant plasma level within a target range.

Neuropsychiatric Toxicity

Adverse effects on the central nervous system, such as dizziness, insomnia, mood changes, or more severe psychiatric symptoms, commonly associated with Efavirenz.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Efavirenz is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Efavirenz for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.