Lamivudine

Lamivudine is the generic name of the remedy known commercially as Epivir, used to treat AIDS in adults and children over 3 months of age, which helps to reduce the amount of the HIV virus in the body and the progression of the disease.

Lamivudine, produced by GlaxoSmithKline laboratories, is one of the components of the 3-in-1 AIDS drug.

Lamivudine should only be used under medical prescription and in combination with other antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV-positive patients.

Lamivudine Indications

Lamivudine is indicated for the treatment of AIDS in adults and children over 3 months of age, in combination with other medicines to treat AIDS.

Lamivudine does not cure AIDS or reduce the risk of transmission of the HIV virus, therefore, the patient must maintain some precautions such as using condoms in all intimate contacts, not using or sharing used needles and personal objects that may contain blood such as razor blades. to shave.

How to use Lamivudine

The use of Lamivudine varies according to the patient's age, being that:

Adults and adolescents over 12 years of age: 1 150 mg tablet twice daily, in combination with other AIDS drugs; Children between 3 months and 12 years of age: 4 mg / kg, twice daily, up to a maximum of 300 mg per day. For doses below 150 mg, the use of Epivir Oral Solution is recommended.

In case of kidney disease, the dose of Lamivudine can be changed, so it is recommended to always follow the doctor's instructions.

Side effects of Lamivudine

Side effects of Lamivudine include headache and stomach pain, tiredness, dizziness, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, pancreatitis, redness and itching of the skin, tingling sensation in the legs, joint and muscle pain, anemia, hair loss, lactic acidosis and fat accumulation.

Contraindications for Lamivudine

Lamivudine is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the components of the formula, in children under 3 months of age and weighing less than 14 kg, and in patients taking Zalcitabine.

However, it is important to consult your doctor in case of pregnancy or if you are trying to conceive, breastfeeding, diabetes, kidney problems and infection with the Hepatitis B virus, and inform if you are taking other medicines, vitamins or supplements.