Entecavir

Uses of Entecavir

Entecavir is commonly used to treat HIV Infection.

How Entecavir Works

Entecavir is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It stops viral DNA synthesis vital for the survivor of the virus hepatitis B by blocking its reverse transcriptase activity.

Side Effects of Entecavir

Headache, Fatigue, Somnolence, Dizziness, Nausea, Insomnia, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Nausea, Dyspepsia

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Entecavir should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Entecavir may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Alcohol Not Advisable

Consuming alcohol with Entecavir will aggravate the condition of a patient with chronic hepatitis B condition. Thus, you are advised not to consume alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may outweigh the risk. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Driving Not advisable

Entecavir may cause side effects such as headache, fatigue, somnolence and dizziness all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Use With Care

Entecavir should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment and close monitoring of liver function test may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Lactation Not Advisable

There's excretion of Entecavir into the breastmilk of mammals but there is limited human data and its effect to a breastfed baby is still largely unknown. You are advised to discontinue breastfeeding when on Entecavir therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).