Atazanavir

Atazanavir is often prescribed in combination with other drugs for the treatment of HIV and AIDS. It can help stop HIV from infecting healthy cells in the body, but it cannot help cells that have already been infected. The medication comes in capsule form and is usually only taken once a day. Side effects may include nausea, rash, and headaches.

What Is Atazanavir?

Atazanavir sulfate (Reyataz®) is a prescription medicine used as a treatment for HIV and AIDS. It is only approved for use in combination with other HIV medications. For people who have been on HIV medications in the past (especially if these medications did not work adequately), it is usually recommended that atazanavir be taken with ritonavir (Norvir®), a similar medication that can make atazanavir more effective.
 
(Click What Is Atazanavir Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with atazanavir. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
 
Common side effects of atazanavir include but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea
  • Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
  • Rash
  • Headaches.
     
(Click Side Effects of Atazanavir to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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