Description
Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg)
Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) is a medication used in the treatment of HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It works by inhibiting the replication of viruses within human cells, thereby preventing the spread of infection. Although it is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, it helps to reduce the viral load, lower the risk of complications associated with HIV, and improve the patient’s lifespan. This medicine should be taken as prescribed by your doctor and is often used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs.
Uses Of Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg)
- Treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
- Treatment of HIV infection
- Reduction of HIV-related complications
- Enhancement of immune system function
- Improvement of the quality of life in patients with HBV and HIV
Treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) helps prevent the HBV virus from multiplying, aiding in better control of the infection and potentially reducing complications.
Treatment of HIV infection. Used alongside other antiretroviral medications, Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) reduces the amount of HIV in your body, helping to manage the infection effectively.
Reduction of HIV-related complications. By decreasing HIV viral load, this tablet lowers the risk of complications associated with HIV, promoting better health.
Enhancement of immune system function. Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) supports the immune system, making it more efficient in fighting infections and managing chronic conditions.
Improvement of the quality of life in patients with HBV and HIV. By effectively managing the viral load, this medication helps improve overall health and quality of life in affected individuals.
Safety & Precautions
- Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg).
- Inform your doctor if you have any skin problems or liver or kidney disease.
- Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor your blood counts and liver function.
- Avoid drinking alcohol as it may increase your risk of liver damage.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using this medicine.
- Do not engage in unprotected sex or share personal items like razors or toothbrushes if you are HIV positive.
- Please use condoms to prevent HIV transmission during sex.
- Take the medicine as prescribed, without missing doses.
- Consult your doctor if you experience persistent side effects.
- Ensure proper dosage adjustments if you have kidney disease.
Side Effects
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.
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Rash
- Skin reaction (rare)
- Liver damage (rare)
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Joint pain
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Muscle pain
FAQ
1. How should I take Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg)?
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it. It can be taken with or without food, but maintaining a consistent schedule enhances its effectiveness. It’s crucial not to miss doses and to continue taking the medication until your doctor advises it is safe to stop.
2. Can I consume alcohol while taking Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg)?
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol while on this medication as it may increase the risk of liver damage. Always consult your doctor before consuming any alcohol during your treatment to avoid potential adverse effects.
3. Are there any special instructions for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although limited studies in humans exist, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks before starting this medication.
4. How does Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) work in treating HBV and HIV?
Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) is an antiviral medication that prevents the multiplication of viruses within human cells. This action stops the virus from producing new viruses, effectively controlling the infection and supporting the immune system in managing chronic HBV and HIV infections.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose of Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg)?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for missed ones, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
6. Can Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) be taken with other medications?
Lamivir HBV Tablet (Lamivudine 100mg) is often prescribed in combination with other antiretroviral medicines to enhance its effectiveness. However, it’s important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Your doctor will recommend the best combination and dosages for your treatment plan.
Additional Information
How They Work
Lamivudine, marketed under various brand names such as Epivir, Epivir HBV, and 3TC, is used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B. This medication operates by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, a critical enzyme that allows viruses like HIV and HBV to replicate within the body.
Dosages
What Are Dosages of Lamivudine?
Determining the appropriate dosage of Lamivudine depends on several factors including age, weight, and the condition being treated. Here are the dosages for both adult and pediatric patients:
| Type of Dosage | Formulation | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Adult and pediatric dosage | Tablet | 100mg (Epivir HBV), 150mg (Epivir), 300mg (Epivir) |
| Oral solution | 5mg/mL (Epivir HBV), 10mg/mL (Epivir) |
HIV Infection
Adult Dosage
- Epivir: 300 mg orally every day or 150 mg every 12 hours
Pediatric Dosage
Epivir Oral Solution:
- Neonates (below 4 weeks): 2 mg/kg orally every 12 hours (for prevention of transmission or treatment)
- Above 1 month: 4 mg/kg orally every 12 hours
- Above 3 months: 5 mg/kg orally every 12 hours or 10 mg/kg daily; not to exceed 300 mg/day
- May switch to once-daily dosing after age 3 years in clinically stable patients with undetectable viral load and stable CD4 count
Epivir Tablet (Weight-based dosing):
- 14 to 19 kg: 75 mg orally every 12 hours or 150 mg every day
- 20 to 24 kg: 75 mg in the morning and 150 mg in the evening or 220 mg every day
- Above 25 kg: 150 mg orally every 12 hours or 300 mg every day
Chronic Hepatitis B
Adult Dosage
- Epivir HBV: 100 mg orally every day
Pediatric Dosage
- Children below 2 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- Children above 2 years: 3 mg/kg orally every day; not to exceed 100 mg/day
Drug Interactions
What Other Drugs Interact with Lamivudine?
It’s crucial to be aware of potential drug interactions when using Lamivudine. These interactions can range from severe to minor. Always consult your healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
Severe Interactions
- Elvitegravir/Cobicistat/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir DF
- Emtricitabine
Serious Interactions
- Cabotegravir
- Sorbitol
- Tafenoquine
- Trilaciclib
Moderate Interactions
Lamivudine has moderate interactions with at least 24 other drugs.
Minor Interactions
- Isavuconazonium sulfate
- Sulfamethoxazole
- Zidovudine
Warnings and Precautions
Specific Warnings and Precautions
- Contraindications include hypersensitivity.
- Effects of drug abuse: None reported.
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
Refer to the ‘What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Lamivudine?’ section for detailed information on both short-term and long-term effects.
Cautions
- Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis reported with nucleoside analogs, including Lamivudine.
- Exacerbation of hepatitis B in HBV/HIV coinfected patients may occur upon discontinuation.
- Risk of immune reconstitution syndrome if used with other antiretroviral drugs.
- Discontinue immediately if signs of pancreatitis appear.
- EPIVIR-HBV is not suitable for HBV and HIV-1 coinfected patients because it can lead to rapid emergence of HIV-1 resistance.
- Monitor for treatment-associated toxicities in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients.
- Use with caution in pediatric patients with a history of pancreatitis. Discontinue treatment as appropriate.
Lower Virologic Suppression Rates and Viral Resistance
Pediatric subjects who received Lamivudine (Epivir) oral solution had lower rates of virologic suppression, lower plasma Lamivudine exposure, and developed viral resistance more frequently than those receiving Lamivudine (Epivir) tablets. The scored tablet is the preferred formulation for pediatric patients who weigh at least 14 kg and for whom a solid dosage form is appropriate. Monitor HIV-1 viral load more frequently when treating with Lamivudine oral solution.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy Registry
A pregnancy registry monitors the maternal-fetal outcomes of women exposed to Lamivudine. Available data from the APR show no difference in the overall risk of birth defects for Lamivudine or Zidovudine compared to the background rate for birth defects of 2.7% in the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) reference population.
To participate, call 1-800-258-4263.
Lactation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that HIV-1-infected mothers in the United States should not breastfeed to avoid risking postnatal transmission of HIV-1 infection.
- Lamivudine is present in human milk.
- No information is available on the effects of Lamivudine or Zidovudine on breastfed infants or milk production.
- Based on the potential for HIV-1 transmission, developing viral resistance, and serious adverse reactions in infants, mothers are advised not to breastfeed while receiving therapy.
