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Lamivudine - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Lamivudine

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

Pronunciation : la-MI-vyoo-deen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Lamivudine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, 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 : Anti- Hepatitis Agents

Trade Names/Brand Names of Lamivudine

India :

International :


Epivir, Epivir-HBV

Why is Lamivudine 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. It works by reducing the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body

When should Lamivudine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Lamivudine?

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 should Lamivudine be taken?

It comes as a tablet and oral solution to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Lamivudine?

• 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.

What are the side effects of Lamivudine?

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.

What are the other precautions for Lamivudine?

Advice parents to monitor pediatric patients for symptoms of pancreatitis.

What are the storage conditions for Lamivudine?

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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