Abacavir Tablets Tablet (Abacavir; Lamivudine) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Abacavir/Lamivudine is a combination of two antiviral medicines that work together to reduce the amount of HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) in your blood by blocking the virus from multiplying.

What is it used for?

HIV infection (the virus that causes AIDS)

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HIV & AIDS

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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How to take this drug

Take one tablet (600/300 mg) once daily. You can take it with or without food. Try to take it at the same time every day so you don't forget — consistency is very important with HIV medicines.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.

What to watch out for

Never stop taking this medicine on your own — skipping doses or stopping can make the virus resistant, meaning your HIV drugs may stop working. Always get your HIV medicines from a hospital pharmacy, government programme, or trusted pharmacy — do not buy from roadside sellers as fake HIV drugs are dangerous. Do not share this medicine with anyone, even if they also have HIV, as dosing and drug combinations must be prescribed individually.

Common Side Effects

Headache
feeling tired or weak
nausea or vomiting
trouble sleeping
stomach pain

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction to abacavir — signs include fever
rash
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
body pain
and difficulty breathing (this can be life-threatening
stop the drug and go to the hospital immediately). Lactic acidosis — unusual tiredness
fast breathing
stomach pain
and cold or blue skin (this is a medical emergency). Liver problems — yellowing of eyes or skin
dark urine
or severe stomach pain.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking with alcohol — it can increase the level of abacavir in your blood and raise the risk of side effects. Do not combine with emtricitabine (another HIV drug) as it works similarly to lamivudine and doubles the risk of side effects. Tell your doctor if you take methadone, as your dose may need adjustment.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding — your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks for you and your baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who have ever had a severe allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction to abacavir or lamivudine should never take this drug again. People with moderate to severe liver problems should avoid it. Those who test positive for the HLA-B*5701 gene (your doctor can test for this) are at very high risk of a dangerous allergic reaction and must not use abacavir.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the container tightly closed and always out of the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Abacavir Tablets