Lamivir

by A. J. Mirza

Active ingredient: Lamivudine

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About Lamivudine

Antiviral, Systemic

Uses

Adjunct to other antiretroviral agents in progressive HIV disease.

How to take it

Adults: 300 mg daily preferably without food. Children: Under 3 mth, not recommended. Over 3 mth, 4 mg/kg twice daily, max 300 mg daily.

Side effects

Neutropenia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia. Raised liver enzymes, serum amylase. Headache, malaise, fatigue, GI upset, abdominal pain, insomnia, cough, nasal symptoms, musculoskeletal pain, pancreatitis, peripheral neuropathy, fever, rash, alopecia, muscle disorders, lactic acidosis, mitochondrial dysfunction in children exposed in utero.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: No evidence of risk in humans. Lactation: Caution advised or effect undetermined. Precautions: Initiate treatment under specialist supervision. Renal impairment, advanced liver disease due to Hep. B, pancreatitis. Risk of wt gain and raised blood lipids and glucose. Severe immune deficiency; risk of immune reactivation syndrome and autoimmune disorders. Risk of osteonecrosis; monitor for signs of joint pain or immobility. Elderly.

Advice

Take with or without meals. Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking lamivudine. To make solution, mix four tabs into 3-5 ounce water, allow to stand for some time, stir and drink. Complete full course of therapy even if you feel better. Frequent blood tests are required to adjust dosage for maximum effect of medication.

Full information on Lamivudine →

Interactions with Lamivudine

IV ganciclovir, foscarnet, co-trimoxazole, sugar alcohols, other cytidine analogues.

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about every medicine you take, including herbal products.

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Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

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