Abacavir + Lamivudine
Uses of Abacavir + Lamivudine
Abacavir + Lamivudine is a combination antiretroviral medication classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
How Abacavir + Lamivudine Works
The combination of Abacavir and Lamivudine acts as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that interfere with the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). By inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, essential for viral DNA synthesis, these medications help prevent the conversion of viral RNA into DNA, thereby suppressing HIV replication and reducing the viral load in the body.
Side Effects of Abacavir + Lamivudine
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and possible severe allergic reactions such as fever, rash, and difficulty breathing.
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Dose adjustment of Abacavir + Lamivudine may be needed and it should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Abacavir + Lamivudine as there is higher reported cases of osteonecrosis.
Pregnancy Limited Data
Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus such as early embryonic death. However, human studies have not shown any malformative effect to fetus or neonate.
Driving Limited Data
There is no information on the safety of Abacavir + Lamivudine administration and the ability to drive.
Liver Limited Data
Abacavir + Lamivudine can be used in patients with liver disease. However, it is not yet been studied in decompensated liver disease.
Lactation Limited Data
There is no data regarding the safety of Abacavir + Lamivudine administration to babies less than 3 months old. Abacavir + Lamivudine is excreted in human milk. In HIV women, breastfeeding should be avoided to prevent HIV transmission.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
