Epivir

What is it?

A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, which inhibits an enzyme active in enabling the H1Vvirus to replicate itself. It is available as film-coated, white, diamond-shaped tablets containing 150mg of lamivudine. Also, EPIVIR SOLUTION containing 1 0mg/ml lamivudine, with oral syringe.

Medical Uses

In addition to other antiretroviral drugs to control and treat HIV infections HIV disease.

Dosage

Adults, 300mg, either as a single dose or divided into two doses each day. Children over 3 months 4mg per kg of body weight twice each day. Maximum dose is 300mg each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, pancreatitis, liver disease due to hepatitis B, kidney impairment. Start treatment with guidance of specialist.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Foscarnet, intrave nous ganciclovir, co-trimoxazole.

Known Side Effects

Anaemia, neutropenia, platelet reduction, headache, malaise, tiredness, insomnia, rash, gastrointestinal upset, abdominal pain, hair loss, pain in muscles and joints, pancreatitis, runny nose, cough, peripheral nerve degeneration, raised liver enzymes, lactic acidosis.

Manufacturer

Glaxosmithkline.