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Generic Name : Lamivudine
Pronunciation : la-MI-vyoo-deen
Trade Name(s):
India- Hepavud, Hepitec, Ladiwin, Lamda, Lami, Lamidac, Lamivir, Lamivir Hb, Lamivir S, Lamivox, Lamostad, Lamostad-N, Lamuvid, Lavir, Retrolam, Shanvudin, Triomune-3, Viramid, Virolam, Virolans, Virolis, Virolis-E.
International- Epivir, Epivir-HBV.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : This medication is a potent nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (nRTI), prescribed for HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B either alone or with other medication.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Hypersensitivity.
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
When it is to be taken : Adults: 150 mg twice daily administered in combination with zidovudine. For patients with body weight less than 50 kg, the recommended oral dose is 2 mg/kg twice daily.
Children(3 months to 12 years): The recommended dose is 4 mg/kg twice daily to a maximum of 150 mg twice a day.
How it should be taken : It comes as a tablet and oral solution to take by mouth, with or without food.
Special Instruction :
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of hepatitis B, kidney disease, pancreas disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* It should not be used in children less than 2 years old.
* It may affect blood sugar level; monitor sugar level regularly while taking this medication.
Side Effects :
Most common -
Headache, nausea, uneasiness, fatigue, nasal signs and symptoms, diarrhea and cough.
Body as a Whole -
Fever or chills.
Gastrointestinal -
Vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, abdominal cramps and indigestion.
Central Nervous System -
Nerve disease, sleep disorders, dizziness and depression.
Skin -
Skin rashes.
Musculoskeletal -
Muscle/Joint pain.
Other Precautions :
* Advice parents to monitor pediatric patients for symptoms of pancreatitis.
Storage Conditions :
Keep out of the reach of children. Store away from heat and direct light.
Store the oral solution form in the refrigerator. However, keep the medication from freezing.
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