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Lamivudine - Learn about Lamivudine Side Effects and Precautions

Lamivudine Information

The pharmacology action of Lamivudine is that it inhibits replication of HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV)

Lamivudine is used in treatment of chronic hepatitis B associated with evidence of hepatitis B viral replication and active liver inflammation.

Interaction and Contraindication of Lamivudine

Interaction of Lamivudine - Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole:  May decrease clearance of lamivudine, increasing its serum concentration.
Zalcitabine:  Lamivudine and zalcitabine may inhibit the intracellular phosphorylation of one another. Use in combination is not recommended.

Contraindication of Lamivudine - Use in patients who require low-galactose diet.

Side Effects o f Lamivudine

Here are the list of some common side effects ofLamivudine :

• Headache; neuropathy; dizziness; sleep disturbances; depression; insomnia and other sleep disorders; depressive disorders.
• Nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; anorexia; abdominal pain/cramps; dyspepsia; stomatitis.
• Anemia; neutropenia; hyperglycemia; weakness; lactic acidosis; lymphadenopathy; splenomegaly; lactic steatosis.
• Malaise; fatigue; fever; chills; myalgia; arthralgia; pancreatitis; elevated liver enzymes; musculoskeletal pain; anaphylaxis; urticaria; rhabdomyolysis; peripheral neuropathy; hepatic steatosis; muscle weakness with CPK elevation; posttreatment exacerbation of hepatitis; redistribution/accumulation of body fat.

Precaution and Warning while taking Lamivudine

The precaution and warnings of Lamivudine drug is as follows:

• Instruct patient that lamivudine is not a cure for HIV or HBV infections and opportunistic infections and other complications of HIV and HBV infections may continue to develop.
• Caution patient or guardian that long-term effects of lamivudine and results from controlled clinical trials evaluating therapeutic and adverse effects are unknown.
• Inform patient of the potential adverse effects.
• Instruct patient to notify health care provider if signs of infection such as a sore throat, fever, cough, and respiratory congestion occur.
• Instruct family to notify health care provider of changes in neurological status such as memory loss or confusion.
• Advise patient that it may take at least 4 wk for max effect.
• Warn patient that the risk of transmission of HIV or HBV to others through sexual contact or exposure to the patient's blood is still present. Instruct patient in methods and precautions to prevent transmission of the HIV or HBV virus.
• Instruct parents or guardians to monitor patient, especially a pediatric patient, for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis.
• Caution mothers to discontinue breastfeeding if receiving lamivudine because of the potential for adverse effects from lamivudine in nursing infants as well as transmission of the HIV virus.
• Advise women to notify health care provider if pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as lamivudine is transferred to the fetus through the placenta.
• Stress the importance of regular exams and laboratory work. Encourage patient to comply with the treatment regimen.
• Advise patient that Epivir-HBV tablets and oral solution contain a lower dose of the same active ingredient as Epivir oral solution, tablets, and lamivudine/zidovudine tablets. Advise patient not to take Epivir-HBV concurrently with Epivir   or lamivudine/zidovudine.
• Advise patients of the importance of taking lamivudine with combination therapy on a regular dosing schedule and to avoid missing doses.

How to store Lamivudine

• Administer lamivudine in combination with other antiretroviral agents (ie, zidovudine).
• Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and schedule.
• A reduced dosage is recommended for patients with impaired renal function.
• Store tablets and oral solution at room temperature (59° to 86°F) in a tight, dry container.