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Atazanavir Coupon - Atazanavir 300mg capsule

atazanavir

Generic Reyataz
Used for HIV Treatment
Used for HIV Treatment

Atazanavir (Reyataz) is an oral tablet or powder that's used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It's often taken in combination with a "booster," like ritonavir (Norvir), to help atazanavir (Reyataz) work better against the virus. Some common side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, and headache. Rarely, this medication can also cause jaundice, which is a health condition that causes the skin or whites of the eyes to turn yellow.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
Last reviewed on June 11, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Atazanavir (Reyataz)?

What is Atazanavir (Reyataz) used for?

  • Treatment of HIV infection

How Atazanavir (Reyataz) works

Atazanavir (Reyataz) is a protease inhibitor, which means it blocks a protein called protease. Normally, protease helps to process viral proteins so that the HIV virus can infect healthy cells. By blocking protease from working, atazanavir (Reyataz) prevents the virus from making copies of itself and spreading.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsReyataz
Drug ClassHIV ARV
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$4232.80(save 99.16%)
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What are the side effects of Atazanavir (Reyataz)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Higher liver enzyme levels (44-49%)
  • Higher cholesterol levels (up to 25%)
  • Nausea (3-14%)
  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (7-9%)
  • Headache (1-6%)
  • Vomiting (3-4%)
  • Belly pain (4%)
  • Nerve pain (4%)
  • Rash (3-7%)
  • Diarrhea (1-3%)
Please note: The side effects above were reported in adults taking this medication with other HIV ARVs. Side effects might differ in children.

Other Side Effects

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Feeling depressed

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic and skin reactions: facial swelling, hives, rash, itchy skin, blistering or peeling of skin, body aches, trouble breathing
  • Serious liver problems: nausea, vomiting, not feeling hungry, pain in the right side of the stomach, yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin, dark-colored urine, light-colored stool
  • Abnormal heart rhythm: chest pounding, trouble breathing, chest pain, feeling faint or lightheaded

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

Bloating

blood in the urine

blurred vision

chest pain or discomfort

chills

clay-colored stools

constipation

dark urine

decreased appetite

diarrhea

dizziness or lightheadedness

dry mouth

fainting

fast heartbeat

fast, shallow breathing

fever

flushed, dry skin

fruit-like breath odor

gaseous abdominal or stomach pain

general feeling of discomfort

headache

hives, itching, or skin rash

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

indigestion

irregular heartbeat

loss of appetite

loss of consciousness

muscle pain or cramping

nausea

pain in the groin or genitals

pain in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

recurrent fever

severe nausea or vomiting

sharp back pain just below the ribs

sleepiness

slow or irregular heartbeat

stomach discomfort or fullness

sweating

swelling

tightness in the chest

trouble with breathing

unexplained weight loss

unpleasant breath odor

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Back pain

cough, increased

discouragement

extra body fat

feeling sad or empty

irritability

loss of interest or pleasure

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

Less common

Burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations

difficulty with moving

muscle stiffness

pain

pain in the joints

unsteadiness or awkwardness

weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

Incidence not known

Hair loss or thinning of the hair

rash with flat lesions or small raised lesions on the skin

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Atazanavir (Reyataz)

thumbs-up

Pros

Powder form can be mixed with soft food or liquid, such as applesauce or milk, so convenient for people with difficulty swallowing pills

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Can be used in young children 3 months and older who weigh over 5 kg (powder form)

Only taken once a day

thumbs-down

Cons

Interacts with a lot of medications

Requires regular blood work and lab tests

Not safe for use for people with serious kidney problems

Needs to be taken with food

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Atazanavir (Reyataz)

pharmacist

  • Atazanavir (Reyataz) should always be taken along with other HIV ARVs and with food. This combination works better against HIV infection for you.

    • Get your routine blood tests done on time while you’re taking atazanavir (Reyataz). Lab work is important to make sure that atazanavir (Reyataz) works against the virus, and that the medication isn't causing unwanted effects.

      • Atazanavir (Reyataz) can interact with many medications. Some medications might need to be stopped or the dose changed before you start HIV ARV regimen. Let your provider or pharmacist know what medications you're taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

        • Atazanavir (Reyataz) might raise your blood sugars. This can lead to or worsen diabetes. If you have diabetes, it's important that you check your blood sugar while taking this medication. Talk to your provider to see if you need additional medications to help control your sugar levels during treatment with atazanavir (Reyataz).

          • Atazanavir (Reyataz) might also raise your cholesterol (fat) levels. This can raise your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you have a history of high cholesterol, talk to your provider to see if you need additional medications to help control your cholesterol levels during treatment with atazanavir (Reyataz).

            • Always follow the directions on your medications. This is extra important for HIV ARV medications. Don't stop any HIV medications, including atazanavir (Reyataz), without speaking to your provider. Doing so can cause the virus to become harder to treat.

              • Don't open atazanavir (Reyataz) capsules since they must be taken whole in order to absorb properly. If you've trouble swallowing or you're giving this medication to a child, consider using atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder.

                More tips for taking atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder:

                • Atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder can be mixed with soft food (applesauce, pudding) or liquid (water, infant formula, milk). The mixture should be given within 1 hour of mixing. Make sure you receive detailed instructions for mixing when you pick up the medication at the pharmacy. If you mixed atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder with water, make sure to eat right after to help your body absorb this medication better.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Atazanavir (Reyataz)

                  Can atazanavir (Reyataz) capsules be opened?
                  It's not recommended to open atazanavir (Reyataz) capsules. If you have trouble swallowing capsules, ask your provider about using the atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder to make a liquid solution that you can drink. You can mix the oral powder with soft food (e.g., apple sauce) or liquid (e.g., water, milk). Once you've mixed the medication, you should take the mixture within an hour. It's important to note that when you switch from the oral tablets to the oral powder, your dose can be different. Talk to your provider about which option is the best for you.
                  Why is atazanavir (Reyataz) taken with a booster?
                  Atazanavir (Reyataz) is sometimes taken with a "booster" medication, such as ritonavir (Norvir). Ritonavir (Norvir) can slow the breakdown of other HIV ARVs, which allows them to stay in your body longer at higher levels so that they can work better. Without a "booster" medication, HIV ARVs like atazanavir (Reyataz) might not work well, which can cause the HIV virus to become resistant (harder to treat). Keep in mind that the dose of atazanavir (Reyataz) might be lower when it's taken without ritonavir (Norvir). Talk to your provider to see what is the right dose for you.
                  Is atazanavir and abacavir the same?
                  No, atazanavir and abacavir aren't the same medication, but they're both used to treat HIV infection in different ways. Atazanavir (Reyataz) works by blocking a protein called protease from working, which prevents the HIV virus from making copies of itself and spreading. Abacavir (Ziagen) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that works by inserting itself into the virus' DNA, which stops the DNA making process. Talk to your provider to discuss what is the right treatment option for you.
                  Can you take atazanavir (Reyataz) with heartburn medications?
                  Talk with your provider if you have heartburn. In general, heartburn medications can lower the amount of atazanavir (Reyataz) in your body and cause it to not work as well in fighting HIV. Depending on what heartburn medication you're taking, your provider might need to lower the dose of that medication, and/or ask you to separate atazanavir (Reyataz) from the heartburn medication by a few hours. Talk with your provider about how to take heartburn medications safely while receiving atazanavir (Reyataz).
                  Does atazanavir (Reyataz) cause jaundice?
                  Yes. Some people who take atazanavir (Reyataz) have experienced jaundice. This is because atazanavir (Reyataz) can cause your levels of bilirubin, a waste product that contains a yellow pigment, to buildup in your body. If you've a history of liver problems, such as chronic (long-term) hepatitis B or C infection, you're more likely at risk of jaundice. As a result, before and while taking atazanavir (Reyataz), your provider will order blood tests to make sure this medication is safe for your liver health. Let your provider know right away if you have signs and symptoms of jaundice, including yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes.
                  Can I take atazanavir (Reyataz) if I'm pregnant?
                  Clinical guidelines recommend that pregnant people with HIV start treatment as soon as possible to lower the risk of transferring the virus to the unborn baby. In general, studies showed that atazanavir (Reyataz) didn't raise the risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. If you're pregnant, talk with your provider to see if atazanavir (Reyataz) is a good option for you. If you choose to take atazanavir (Reyataz) during pregnancy, you’re encouraged to enroll in the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR). This registry collects information about your and your baby’s health during treatment with atazanavir (Reyataz).
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Atazanavir (Reyataz)?

                  Atazanavir (Reyataz) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Heart rhythm problems (PR prolongation)

                  • Risk factors: History of heart problems | Taking medications that affect heart rhythm

                    Atazanavir (Reyataz) can affect your heart rhythm, which can be serious and life-threatening. Your risk is higher if you've certain conditions, including electrolyte levels that's out of balance, heart rhythm problems, or are taking other medications that cause heart rhythm problems, such as digoxin (Lanoxin), among others. If you feel your chest pounding, have trouble breathing, have chest pain, or feel faint or lightheaded while taking atazanavir (Reyataz), get medical attention right away.

                    risk-warning

                    Severe skin and allergic reactions

                    Atazanavir (Reyataz) can sometimes cause rash and other severe skin reactions. Rash is most common in the first 8 weeks of treatment and can often last a little more than a week. If you have a mild or moderate rash, continue to take atazanavir (Reyataz) and let your provider know. If you have a severe rash or your rash gets worse, talk with your provider right away. In rare cases, if you experience a severe rash with fever, general discomfort, muscle or joint pain, mouth sores, blisters, or facial swelling, stop taking atazanavir (Reyataz) right away and get medical attention.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver problems

                    • Risk factors: Hepatitis B or C | History of liver problems

                      Atazanavir (Reyataz) can cause life-threatening liver problems. In particular, this medication can cause a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow toxin that can lead to jaundice. As a result, your provider will order blood tests for you before and during treatment so they can make sure this medication is safe for your liver. Let your provider know immediately if you experience signs and symptoms of liver damage, such as feeling sleepy, nausea, loss of appetite, light-colored stool, upper right stomach pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine.

                      risk-warning

                      Kidney problems

                      • Risk factors: History of kidney problems | Taking other medications that can cause kidney problems

                        Atazanavir (Reyataz) can cause kidney damage and is not a good option for people with kidney problems or are at risk for kidney problems. Before and during treatment with this medication, your provider will check your blood works to make sure atazanavir (Reyataz) is safe for you kidneys. Make sure your provider knows all the medications you take, including over-the-counter (OTC) pain or cold medications. Many of these medications can include ingredients, such as ibuprofen (Advil), that can cause kidney problems. Avoid taking atazanavir (Reyataz) if you're on dialysis.

                        risk-warning

                        Risk of kidney stones or gallstones

                        Though rare, few people who took atazanavir (Reyataz) have reported developing kidney stones or gallstones during treatment. Stop taking atazanavir (Reyataz) and let your provider know right away if you experience symptoms such as pain in the lower stomach or back, nausea, and vomiting.

                        risk-warning

                        High blood sugar

                        Taking atazanavir (Reyataz) and certain HIV ARVs can raise your blood sugar levels or worsen your diabetes. In some cases, your provider will need to adjust your dose of diabetic medications to make sure your blood sugar is under control. If you have a history of diabetes, let your provider know before starting atazanavir (Reyataz). Your provider might ask you to check your blood sugar at home to make sure this medication is safe for you.

                        risk-warning

                        Overactive immune system

                        Taking combination ARV therapy, such as atazanavir (Reyataz) with other HIV medications, can cause changes to your immune system called immune reconstitution syndrome. This condition happens when your immune system becomes overly active after you start combination therapy. So your immune system begins to fight off different infections that it was too weak to fight off before you started treatment. In rare cases, your immune response might improve too much with treatment that it starts to attack normal cells in your body (autoimmune). You can develop these conditions as early as during the first few weeks of treatment or many months later. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms, such as fever, pain, hair loss, bulging eyes, or sweating, after starting atazanavir (Reyataz).

                        risk-warning

                        Changes in body fat

                        Rarely, people taking HIV medications, such as atazanavir (Reyataz), have experienced changes in body fat. These changes include fat buildup in the back of the neck, breast, and around the middle of the body. Some people also lost fat from the legs, arms, and face. It's not clear whether atazanavir (Reyataz) causes these changes to body fat, why this happens, and whether it will affect your health in the future. Let your provider know if these changes occur while you're taking atazanavir (Reyataz).

                        risk-warning

                        Risk of bleeding

                        • Risk factor: History of bleeding problems

                          Some people with a bleeding condition called hemophilia have had more bleeding after starting protease inhibitors, such as atazanavir (Reyataz). About half the time, you can continue taking this medication after the bleeding stops. Let your provider know if you notice sudden bleeding or have bleeding that's difficult to stop.

                          risk-warning

                          Interactions with other medications

                          Some medications can interfere with how well your body gets rid of atazanavir (Reyataz) from your system. This can affect the amount of atazanavir (Reyataz) in your body, how well it works, and the risk of side effects.

                          Taking certain supplements (e.g., St. John's Wort) or tuberculosis medication (e.g., rifampin (Rifadin)) can lower the amount of atazanavir (Reyataz) in your body. This can make atazanavir (Reyataz) not work as well to treat your HIV. So this combination must be avoided.

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) also interferes with how your body gets rid of other medications. For example, taking atazanavir (Reyataz) with medications like alfuzosin (Uroxatral) can raise the amount of alfuzosin in your body. This can lead to dangerously low blood pressure. In addition, taking atazanavir (Reyataz) with some statins (e.g., lovastatin (Altoprev), simvastatin (Zocor)) can cause your body to absorb more of these statins and raise your risk for serious muscle problems.

                          Because of the potential for serious interactions with atazanavir (Reyataz) and various medications, tell your provider and pharmacist about all the medications you take or plan to take. They can make sure your medications are safe to take together.

                          dosage

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 90 capsules of 300mg of Atazanavir (Reyataz) is $66.08 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 98.44% off the average retail price of $4232.80.
                          capsule
                          Capsule
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          150mg28 capsules$35.50$1.27
                          200mg60 capsules$45.50$0.76
                          300mg90 capsules$66.08$0.73

                          Typical dosing for Atazanavir (Reyataz)

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) oral tablets

                          • Adults: The typical dose ranges from 300 mg to 400 mg by mouth once daily. Your provider will determine your dose based on different factors, such as whether you're taking ritonavir (Norvir), and whether or not you've taken another protease inhibitor before.

                          • Children 6 years and older: The dose will depend on your child's weight.

                            • 15 kg (33 lbs) to less than 35 kg (77 lbs): The typical dose is 200 mg by mouth once a day taken together with 100 mg ritonavir (Norvir) and food.

                            • 35 kg (77 lbs) and more: The typical dose is 300 mg by mouth once a day taken together with 100 mg ritonavir (Norvir) and food.

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) oral powder

                          • Children 3 months and older: The dose will depend on your child's weight.

                            • 5 kg (11 lbs) to less than 15 kg (33 lbs): The typical dose is 200 mg by mouth once a day taken together with 80 mg ritonavir (Norvir) and food.

                            • 15 kg (33 lbs) to less than 25 kg (55 lbs): The typical dose is 250 mg by mouth once a day taken together with 80 mg ritonavir (Norvir) and food.

                          Your dose might be different if you've kidney or liver problems. Your dose might also be different if you're pregnant.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Atazanavir (Reyataz) and other drugs

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Atazanavir (Reyataz). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          drug-cost

                          How much does Atazanavir (Reyataz) cost?

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                          Reyataz (brand)
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                          $35.50

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                          contraindications-icon

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Atazanavir (Reyataz) will not be safe for you to take.
                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Atazanavir (Reyataz)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Atazanavir (Reyataz). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Atazanavir (Reyataz)
                          Used for:

                          • Treatment of HIV infection

                          $35.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Evotaz (atazanavir / cobicistat)
                          Used for:

                          • Treatment of HIV

                          $1579.91 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Prezista (darunavir)
                          Used for:

                          • Treatment of HIV infection in people aged 3 years and older

                          $71.60 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          images

                          Atazanavir (Reyataz) images

                          Green And Orange H A8 - Atazanavir 300mg Capsule
                          This medicine is Green And Orange Capsule Imprinted With "H A8".Green And Orange H A8 - Atazanavir 300mg Capsule
                          Blue And Red 300 Mg T26 - Atazanavir 300mg Capsule
                          This medicine is Blue And Red Capsule Imprinted With "300 Mg T26".Blue And Red 300 Mg T26 - Atazanavir 300mg Capsule

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. (2020). Instructions for use: Reyataz (RAY-ah-taz) (atazanavir) oral powder.

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). What is hemophilia?

                          Clinical Info HIV.gov. (n.d.). Boosting.

                          View All References (10)

                          Clinical Info HIV.gov. (n.d.). Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS).

                          Clinical Info HIV.gov. (n.d.). Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI).

                          Clinical Info HIV.gov. (2023). Recommendations for the use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy and interventions to reduce perinatal HIV transmission in the United States.

                          E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C. (2023). REYATAZ- atazanavir capsule, gelatin coated REYATAZ- atazanavir powder [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          HIVinfo.NIH.gov. (2021). Drug resistance.

                          MedlinePlus. (2022.). Bilirubin blood test.

                          National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Symptoms & causes of gallstones.

                          Thapa, S., et al. (2023). Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. StatPearls.

                          U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Drug development and drug interactions | Table of substrates, inhibitors and inducers.

                          Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. (2022). Atazanavir- atazanavir capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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