Antiretroviral (Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor - NNRTI)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Nevirapine is an antiretroviral (anti-HIV) drug that works by blocking an enzyme the HIV virus needs to multiply in your body, helping to reduce the amount of virus in your blood and keep your immune system stronger.
Binds directly to HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme and inhibits its catalytic activity, preventing conversion of viral RNA to DNA and blocking viral replication in CD4+ T cells.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For adults, take one 200 mg tablet once daily for the first 14 days (this is called the lead-in period to reduce the chance of rash). After 14 days, increase to one 200 mg tablet twice daily — morning and evening. You can take it with or without food. Do not skip the lead-in period or increase the dose early.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for it. If you are still in the first 14 days of treatment and you miss several doses, talk to your doctor before continuing.
Always get your nevirapine from a registered pharmacy — never buy from roadside vendors or unverified sources, as fake ARVs are dangerous. Take your medication every single day at the same time — missing doses can cause the virus to become resistant, making the drug stop working. Report any rash or yellowing of the eyes to your doctor immediately, especially during the first 18 weeks of treatment.
Nevirapine can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and injections — use condoms as a backup. It interacts with rifampicin (commonly used for TB treatment in Nigeria), so your doctor may need to adjust doses. Avoid taking with St. John's Wort herbal supplements as it can make nevirapine less effective.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Nevirapine with your other drugs?
Nevirapine can be used during pregnancy and is commonly given during delivery to prevent passing HIV to the baby, but it must be prescribed and monitored by your doctor — do not self-medicate.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep in a cool, dry place — avoid storing in the bathroom or kitchen where there is moisture. Always keep out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Nevirapine?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.