Central nervous system symptoms related to the use of efavirenz in HIV-seropositive patients

Purpose of review Efavirenz is currently regarded as an effective first-line treatment for HIV infection. It is therefore important that possible side effects are well investigated. Recent findings The most frequent adverse events of efavirenz are central nervous system symptoms, such as depressive symptoms, insomnia, vivid nightmares, headache, dizziness, fatigue and impaired concentration. Summary Future research should focus on the neuropsychiatric side effects of efavirenz and on the mechanisms by which efavirenz induces side effects.