Key takeaways
Efavirenz (Sustiva) and delavirdine (Rescriptor) are both medications used to treat HIV infections and belong to the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) class. However, they have several differences. Efavirenz (Sustiva) is still available as a generic medication and is taken orally once daily at bedtime on an empty stomach, while delavirdine (Rescriptor) is no longer available in the United States. Efavirenz can be used in children as young as 3 months old, whereas delavirdine was not specified for pediatric use. Efavirenz has a range of side effects, including dizziness, rash, and liver problems, and it interacts with many other medications, requiring careful monitoring. Delavirdine was discontinued for business reasons, not safety concerns, as newer HIV treatments became more popular. While efavirenz is still a part of current HIV treatment regimens, delavirdine is not used anymore.
