Buy Stocrin Online

Stocrin (Efavirenz) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Stocrin?

Stocrin is a tablet formulation of efavirenz, an NNRTI (non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor) used to treat HIV-1 infection. It belongs to the antiviral class and is approved by the FDA, EMA and SAHPRA for adults and adolescents with confirmed HIV Infection. Stocrin is supplied as round, film-coated pills in 200 mg and 600 mg strengths.

Who Should Use Stocrin?

• Adults (≥18 years) living with HIV-1 who need a once-daily regimen.
• Adolescents (12-17 years) weighing ≥35 kg, when prescribed by a qualified health professional.
• Patients who prefer a single-tablet regimen and have no contraindications listed below.

How Does It Work?

Efavirenz binds directly to the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing the virus from copying its genetic material and halting replication. By blocking this key step, viral load declines, allowing the immune system to recover. The drug does not cause intoxication when taken as directed, but misuse can lead to resistance and neuro-psychiatric effects.

Why Choose Stocrin?

• Generic advantage: Stocrin offers the same efficacy as brand-name efavirenz products at a lower cost, helping patients manage long-term therapy financially.
• Approved safety profile: Extensive clinical data support its use across diverse South African populations.
• Convenient dosing: Once-daily tablet improves adherence compared with twice-daily regimens.

Off-label use (e.g., for prevention of mother-to-child transmission) should only be considered after professional consultation.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• 200 mg tablet: 1 tablet once daily (for patients ≥35 kg on a low-dose regimen).
• 600 mg tablet: 1 tablet once daily (standard adult dose).

How to Take

• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Take with food or shortly after a meal to lessen dizziness and improve absorption.

Missed Dose

• If you remember within 12 hours, take the missed tablet; otherwise skip it and resume the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.

Overdose

• Seek immediate medical help; monitor for severe CNS effects (e.g., Seizures, profound confusion).

Special Populations

• Elderly: No dosage adjustment needed, but monitor for CNS side effects.
• Renal impairment: No adjustment required; efavirenz is primarily metabolised hepatically.
• Hepatic impairment: Use caution; start at the lower 200 mg dose and monitor plasma levels.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice as they can increase efavirenz levels.
• Alcohol can worsen dizziness; limit intake.
• Consistent timing each day supports stable drug levels.

Precautions and Warnings

• Neuro-psychiatric effects: Mood changes, Insomnia, vivid dreams may occur; report severe symptoms.
• Teratogenic risk: Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception.
• Liver function: Conduct baseline liver tests; monitor periodically.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness, headache, insomnia, vivid dreams, rash

Less Common Side Effects

• Nausea, abdominal Pain, Fatigue, elevated liver enzymes

Serious Side Effects

• Severe rash or Stevens-Johnson syndrome - stop medication and seek urgent care
• Persistent mood changes, Depression, or suicidal thoughts - contact a health professional immediately

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Known hypersensitivity to efavirenz or any tablet excipients.
• Pregnant women not using reliable contraception.
• Patients with uncontrolled severe liver disease.

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in the original container, tightly closed.
• Store at 20-25 °C (68-77 °F); protect from moisture and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Stocrin Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Stocrin to start working?

Efavirenz reaches steady-state concentrations after about 7 days of daily dosing, and viral load reduction usually becomes evident within 2-4 weeks.

Can I take Stocrin with coffee or tea?

Yes, moderate coffee or tea is safe, but avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice which can raise drug levels.

What should I do if I feel unusually tired after starting Stocrin?

Mild fatigue is common in the first two weeks; maintain hydration and a regular sleep schedule. If fatigue persists or worsens, contact a health professional.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on Stocrin?

Occasional alcohol is permissible, but excessive drinking can intensify dizziness and liver strain; limit intake.

Will Stocrin interact with my TB medication?

Rifampicin, a common TB drug, can lower efavirenz levels; dose adjustment may be necessary-consult your clinician.

Can Stocrin be taken during pregnancy?

Efavirenz is contraindicated in the first trimester due to teratogenic risk; discuss alternative regimens with your health provider.

How should I store Stocrin when traveling?

Keep the medication in its original blister pack, away from heat and direct sunlight; a small insulated pouch can help maintain temperature.

What is the best time of day to take Stocrin?

Take it at the same time each day, preferably in the evening with food to reduce dizziness and improve adherence.

Are there any vaccines I should avoid while on Stocrin?

Live vaccines are generally safe, but discuss timing with your clinician, especially if you have immune suppression.

What if I miss a dose for more than 24 hours?

Contact a health professional for advice; you may need to restart the regimen or adjust dosing.

Glossary

• NNRTI: Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor; a drug class that blocks HIV replication.
• Steady-state: The point at which drug intake and elimination are balanced, giving a constant blood level.
• CYP2B6: Liver enzyme that metabolises efavirenz; its activity affects drug concentration.

Disclaimer

This handbook provides general information about Stocrin (efavirenz) and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Off-label use should only be considered after consulting a qualified health professional. Our online pharmacy service offers convenient access to approved medicines; however, the responsibility for safe use rests with the individual. Always discuss treatment decisions with a health professional before starting or changing any medication.