Information about Abacavir

Generic Name : Abacavir
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Abacavir are provided here.

Pronunciation : a-BAK-a-vir

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Abacavir, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y41.5 Therapeutic Classification : Antiretroviral Agents

Trade Names/Brand Names of Abacavir

India :

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International :

Ziagen

Why is Abacavir Prescribed? (Indications)

Abacavir is an antiviral drug used to treat AIDS/HIV infection by acting on the enzyme called reverse transcriptase.

Abacavir will not cure the HIV infection but reduces the viral load and delays the progression of the disease.

When should Abacavir not be taken? (Contraindications)

Moderate to severe liver disease
Previous allergic reaction to abacavir

What is the dosage of Abacavir?

Treatment of HIV-1/AIDS along with other medications. Dose in adults is 600 mg daily, as a single dose or divided into two doses.

How should Abacavir be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take with or without food. It is also available in combination with other anti-HIV drugs.

What are the warnings and precautions for Abacavir?

Caution is advised when used in patients with history of depression or at risk for heart disease.
Avoid use with alcohol.
Take along with other anti-HIV drugs and not alone, to prevent resistance.
Continue other precautions to prevent spread of HIV infection.

What are the side effects of Abacavir?

Sleep disturbances, headache, depressive disorders
Digestive tract disorders like nausea, diarrhea
Allergic reaction, which may be mild to severe
Liver disease, which may cause nausea, jaundice, dark-colored urine, clay-colored stools
Reaction to infections in the body due to improvement in the immune status
Redistribution of fat resulting in thin limbs, fat abdomen and hump in upper back

What are the other precautions for Abacavir?

Monitor and treat the signs of lactic acidosis such as upset stomach, fluctuations in heartbeat,unexplained muscle pain, and difficulty in breathing.
Patient's body fat and cardiac parameters should be measured regularly to avoid heart related illness.