Question
Is Novatrim the same as nevirapine and zidovudine?
13 August 2020. Related: All topics, Pregnancy, South Africa.
My baby is exposed to HIV so I was given nevirapine and zidovudine. But when I went for refill for zidovudine because it has finished the nurse gave me Novatrim without asking any questions. Is it Novatrim and is it good for my son of three weeks.
Answer
Hi there
No, these are different medicines.
Nevirapine and zidovudine are both HIV medicines. They are only given to you baby for a short time – usually four weeks.
Novatrim is an antibiotic that is also called cotrimoxazole This tablet contains two antibiotics. This is usually given to the baby afterwards and for a much longer time.
If the times were different or if you are still worried, please call you clinic so they can double-check.
Hi Nelly, congratulations on having a baby.
Are you on treatment yourself? After 6 weeks (12 in a few countries) it is not recommended to continue with HIV treatment for baby.
Even while breastfeeding, there is no continued benefit to give baby nevirapine/zidovudine. Some doctors will suggest Bactrim but this is not prevent other infections while breastfeeding and not HIV itself.
More information about baby’s meds can be found here: https://i-base.info/qa/factsheets/infant-meds-when-the-mother-is-living-with-hiv
Hi
My baby is 8months now, I’ve been breastfeeding only and giving her Nevirapine as per instruction, but of late Nevirapine is out of stock everywhere. Dr then prescribed adco-zidovine. Does it work the same way as Nevirapine? I’m abit worried about how reliable it is.
I’m undetected and I still take my meds w everyday.