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Compare Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

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.

  • Efavirenz (Sustiva)
    Rescriptor (delavirdine)
  • Efavirenz (Sustiva)
    Rescriptor (delavirdine)

  • Summary of Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Efavirenz (Sustiva) is a medication that's used in combination with other antiretroviral (ARV) therapy to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It comes as oral tablets and capsules that are swallowed whole. The capsules can also be opened up and sprinkled in liquid for people who have trouble swallowing. Some side effects of this medication are rash, diarrhea, and nausea. Efavirenz (Sustiva) is available as both a brand-name and generic medication.

    Summary for HIV ART
    Prescription only

    Rescriptor (delavirdine) was one of the first HIV antiretroviral (ARV) medications approved by the FDA. It hasn't been a first choice treatment option for many years, and is no longer available in the United States.

  • Indications of Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Indications for
    •Treatment of HIV infection in people ages 3 months and older
    Indications for

  • Pros and Cons of Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Capsule form can be opened and sprinkled on 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 7.7 lbs
    Cons
    •Has many potentially serious side effects and risks (e.g., nerve issues, irregular heartbeat)
    •Needs to be taken on an empty stomach
    •Not recommended during pregnancy
    •Interacts with a lot of medications
    Pros and Const for HIV ART
    Pros
    Cons

  • Common Side Effects of Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Common Side Effects for

    The following side effects were reported in adults taking this medication with other HIV ARVs. Side effects might differ in children.

    •Rash (5-16%)
    •Diarrhea (3-14%)
    •Pain (1-13%)
    •Higher triglyceride (fat) levels (6-11%)
    •Low white blood cell count (2-10%)
    •Nausea (2-10%)
    •Dizziness (2-9%)
    •Feeling tired (2-8%)
    •Higher liver enzymes (5-8%)
    •Headache (2-8%)
    •Difficulty sleeping (7%)
    •Vomiting (3-6%)
    •Trouble concentrating (3-5%)
    Common Side Effects for

  • Warnings of Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
    •Effects on the brain, nerves, and mental health
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Severe skin and allergic reactions
    •Liver problems
    •Higher cholesterol levels
    •Changes in body fat
    •Overactive immune system
    •Interactions with other medications
    Common Side Effects for

  • Prices with our coupons for Sustiva vs. Delavirdine

    Learn more about Efavirenz
    Learn more about Rescriptor

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