What is Epivir?
Epivir, known under the name of Lamivudine, is widely spread and appreciated as an effective antiviral treatment that helps warn hepatitis B and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) cells from growing and multiplying within the organism. While the medication served a great treatment of HIV it can cure neither HIV nor AIDS. Epivir HBV should not be used by patients affected by both Hepatitis B and HIV.
Before the beginning of the medication administration the patient should consult a healthcare provider and get all the inevitable recommendations and instruction for use. Follow the received tips to make the treatment course effective and safe. Follow the prescription and never adjust Epivir dose or intake periodicity on your own. Prolonger medication intake can lead to misuse and cause numerous undesirable reactions. Epivir can be used either with or without food. Consult your healthcare provider if you give the treatment to your child and he/she has problems swallowing tablets. Probably, you will need to break it into halves.
Affecting the immune system and other important body functions of the patient greatly, Epivir should not be taken by people, allergic to its active ingredients, other components or similar medications. Tell your doctor about other conditions that disturb you to make sure you will not meet any contraindications. Pay special attention to conditions including:
Diverse prescription and non-prescription medications may interact with Epivir, thus, it is inevitable to provide the doctor with the full list of drugs you take. Epivir should not be combined with other remedies, containing Emtricitabile or Lamivudeline. Such medications include Emtriva, Trizivir, Atripla, Truvada, Epzicom, Complera, Stribild, Combivir and other pills. Never start Epivir intake without previous consultations with your healthcare provider, since it can lead to devastating complications caused by negative drug interactions and contraindications.
Seek emergency medical assistance if you have noticed any signs of Epivir misuse or overuse, including:
Recommendations for Use
Frequent blood tests may be required during Epivir treatment course, as well as kidney and liver functioning check. Since HIV and AIDS are commonly treated with the mix of numerous medications, follow the drug administration schedule without any changes. Once you have missed Epivir dose, take it when possible, though skip if it is time for the next scheduled dose. Avoid increasing or doubling the dose to prevent possible complications and side effects.
Precautions and Contraindications
• Kidney disorders;
• Liver diseases;
• Pancreatitis, etc.
Even though Epivir is not approved to harm an unborn or nursing child, it is still not recommended to be administered by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Epivir should not be given to children under 2 years old.
Drug Interactions
Side Effects
• Severe allergic reactions with hives, swelling of different body parts, problems breathing, etc.;
• Uneven heart rate;
• Diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting;
• Weakness, fatigue, light-headedness;
• Muscle weakness and pain;
• Numbness of the arms and legs;
• Symptoms of liver problems, including vomiting, nausea, decreased appetite, jaundice, etc.;
• Pancreas disorders: fast heartbeat, upper stomach pain, severe nausea and vomiting.
The list of Epivir side effects and complications is not complete, so call your doctor the moment you have noticed any abnormality.