The drug's absorption is unaffected by most meals, but high-fat meals should be avoided since drug absorption may be increased by 50 per cent. Efavirenz is metabolized by the cytochrome P-450 hepatic enzymes to inactive metabolites. The drug is dosed according to body weight, in children three years of age and older who weigh between 13-40 kg. The manufacturer's literature should be consulted for information on other potential drug interactions. These symptoms generally disappear after the first two to four weeks of therapy, and may be minimized by administering the drug at bedtime.
Maculopapular rash is another common side effect, occurring more frequently in children than adults.
It usually disappears without any change in therapy, but occasionally is severe enough to necessitate drug discontinuation. The IV form of the proton pump inhibitor joins the oral dosage form, already marketed in Canada. The new dosage form is indicated for the treatment of conditions where a rapid reduction of gastric acid secretion is required, e.g., reflux esophagitis in hospitalized patients who cannot tolerate oral medications. As soon as feasible, patients should be switched to the oral dosage form of pantoprazole, at the same dosage. The IV injection is prepared by adding 10 mL of sterile normal saline to the vial.