Lamivudine
Conditions Treated
Lamivudine (Epivir) is used in combination with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Lamivudine does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people. Lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) is used to treat hepatitis B infection. Lamivudine is in a class of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. It works by stopping the spread of the HIV and hepatitis B viruses.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Lamivudine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- headache
- fatigue
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- dizziness
- trouble sleeping
- depression
- stuffy nose
- cough
If you experience any of the following symptoms or those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- stomach pain
- vomiting (in children)
- nausea (in children)
- fever
- muscle pain
- numbness, tingling, or burning in the fingers or toes
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Lamivudine comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. Lamivudine (Epivir) is usually taken every 12 hours (twice a day). Lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) is usually taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take lamivudine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take lamivudine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking lamivudine without talking to your doctor.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking lamivudine, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to lamivudine or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) and vitamins. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had hepatitis B, kidney disease, or pancreas disease (in children only).
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Epivir®
- Epivir-HBV®
- Epzicom® (as a combination product containing Abacavir, Lamivudine)
- Trizivir® (as a combination product containing Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine)
Overdose
What To Do In The Case of Emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). The liquid does not need to be refrigerated; however, it should be stored in a cool place. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.