Adefovir
Written By Dr. Swati Mishra
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)
Adefovir Uses
Adefovir is used in the treatment of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
How Adefovir works
Adefovir is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Common side effects of Adefovir
Headache, Nausea, Diarrhea, Fatigue, Weakness, Dizziness, Indigestion, Flatulence, Abnormal kidney function test
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Expert advice for Adefovir
- You have been prescribed Adefovir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
- In combination with other medicines, it is used for the treatment of HIV infections.
- Take it with food, as this increases the absorption of the medicine into the body.
- Adefovir may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- You may still develop infections or other illnesses associated with viral infection while taking this medication.
- You can also pass on HIV or HBV to others. Don't share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.
- During treatment and for at least six months after stopping this medicine, regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function, level of hepatitis B virus and blood cells in your blood.
- You have been prescribed Adefovir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
- In combination with other medicines, it is used for the treatment of HIV infections.
- Take it with food, as this increases the absorption of the medicine into the body.
- Adefovir may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- You may still develop infections or other illnesses associated with viral infection while taking this medication.
- You can also pass on HIV or HBV to others. Don't share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.
- During treatment and for at least six months after stopping this medicine, regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function, level of hepatitis B virus and blood cells in your blood.
Frequently asked questions for Adefovir
Adefovir belongs to a group of medicines called antiretrovirals. It is used in the treatment of HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
Adefovir prevents the multiplication of the virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Adefovir is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.
Adefovir should be taken in the dose and duration advised by the doctor. This medicine may be taken with or without food but it is better to be taken at a fixed time of the day to avoid the chances of missing a dose.
Adefovir is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Adefovir too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
If you forget a dose of Adefovir, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.