Efavirenz (Sustiva, Stocrin) is linked to one set of side effects that are different to all the other drugs. This is because it can affect your mood and feelings. Efavirenz is one of the drugs in Atripla.

When you start taking efavirenz, you may feel disorientated or anxious and you may have vivid or disturbing dreams. This is a side effect of this drug.

Most people get some side effects when they first start to take efavirenz, but these reduce after the first few weeks, and are much easier to manage.

Some people get very serious problems – including severe depression and anxiety – and should contact their doctor to switch to another drug.

Efavirenz can make your worries or depression worse. You need to be aware of this if you start a combination that includes this drug.

Further reading

Information about efavirenz side effects from the i-Base guide to side effects and other complications.