Abacavir 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.

Abacavir works by blocking the function of an enzyme, called reverse transcriptase, which is responsible for the HIV replication process. This helps to reduce the level of HIV in the blood.

Abacavir belongs to a group of medicines called antiretrovirals. It is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which if not controlled can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Effective control of HIV can also improve the working of the immune system.

Abacavir 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 Abacavir too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.

The use of Abacavir may cause a serious or life-threatening allergic or hypersensitivity reaction. In this, one may experience fever, skin rash, nausea, vomit, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, severe tiredness and headache. Other symptoms of hypersensitivity may include joint or muscle pain, swelling of the neck, shortness of breath, sore throat, cough and occasionally inflammation of the eye (conjunctivitis), mouth ulcers, low blood pressure, tingling or numbness of the hands or feet. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms and stop taking Abacavir immediately.

If you forget a dose of Abacavir, 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.