An Overview of Rescriptor (Delavirdine)

Brand Name: Rescriptor
Other Name(s): 136817-59-9, DLV, Delavirdine mesylate, U-90152S

Drug Class: Non-nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors

Delavirdine, also known as Rescriptor, is a type of medicine called a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). NNRTIs block reverse transcriptase, a protein that HIV needs to make more copies of itself.

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses

Delavirdine was approved by the FDA on April 4, 1997, for use with other antiretroviral medications in the treatment of HIV infection in adults. This medicine does not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS and does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.

Dosage Form/Administration

Delavirdine comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth. Avoid taking delavirdine within 1 hour of taking didanosine (Videx or ddI) or antacids. Delavirdine tablets (in the 100 mg dosing form only) may be dissolved in water if individuals are unable to swallow pills.

Recommended Daily Dose

The recommended dose of delavirdine for adults is 400 mg (four 100 mg or two 200 mg tablets) three times a day. Some individuals may benefit from different doses of delavirdine. Individuals should always take delavirdine as prescribed by their doctor.

Contraindications

Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine. Certain medications may affect the functioning of the liver; individuals taking these medications or who have liver disease should not take delavirdine.

Possible Side Effects

Along with its desired effects, delavirdine can cause some unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include severe skin rash accompanied by blisters, fever, joint or muscle pain, redness and swelling of the eyes, sores in the mouth, and swelling; serious kidney problems; anemia; and liver and muscle problems. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Many individuals who take delavirdine report having rash on the upper body and arms within the first 1 to 3 weeks they are taking the medication. This rash usually goes away within about 2 weeks. Other less serious side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, and headache. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.

Drug and Food Interactions

A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials

Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Delavirdine.

Manufacturer Information

Delavirdine
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985

Rescriptor
Pfizer Inc
235 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017-5755
Phone: 800-438-1985