Abacavir + Lamivudine
INFORMATION ABOUT ABACAVIR + LAMIVUDINE
Abacavir + Lamivudine Uses
Abacavir+Lamivudine is used in the treatment of HIV infection.
How Abacavir + Lamivudine works
Abacavir + Lamivudine is a combination of two anti-HIV medicines: Abacavir and Lamivudine. They prevent HIV (virus) from multiplying, thereby reducing the amount of virus in your body. They also increase the CD4 cell (white blood cells that protect against infection) count in your blood.
Common side effects of Abacavir + Lamivudine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Nausea, Vomiting, Headache, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Rash, Hypersensitivity, Decreased appetite
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
02 Jan 2023 | 12:26 PM (UTC)
We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and revelant information
Read our editorial policy
Expert advice for Abacavir + Lamivudine
- Abacavir + Lamivudine is a combination of two medicines which slows down or stops the progression of HIV infections.
- It may also be used for preventing HIV and should be started within 72 hours of exposure to HIV.
- Take it with food, as this increases the absorption of the medicine into the body.
- Abacavir + Lamivudine may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Skipping doses increases the risk of treatment failure. Make sure that you take all your doses at the correct time.
- Always practice safe sex while taking Abacavir + Lamivudine. Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.
- It may cause weakening of your bones. Exercise regularly and take calcium and vitamin D supplements as suggested by your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Abacavir + Lamivudine
Abacavir+Lamivudine is a combination of two medicines that belong to a group of medicines called antiretrovirals. It is used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). It helps to control HIV infection so your immune system can work better.
Abacavir+Lamivudine 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+Lamivudine 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+Lamivudine 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+Lamivudine too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
The use of Abacavir+Lamivudine 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+Lamivudine immediately.
If you forget a dose of Abacavir+Lamivudine, 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.