Generic Epivir, tablets

Chemical Name: LAMIVUDINE

Common uses

This medicine is a nucleoside analogue used with other medicines (such as zidovudine or ritonavir) to treat human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV).

Before using

Warning: a buildup of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis), severe liver problems, and in some cases death, have been reported with the use of lamivudine, either alone or in combination with other medicines used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Some forms of this medicine contain a lower dose of lamivudine used to treat hepatitis B infection only. This medicine contains the dose of lamivudine intended to treat HIV infection, with or without hepatitis B infection. Do not switch brands of this medicine without first checking with your doctor. If you also have hepatitis B infection, worsening of your condition may occur if you stop taking this medicine. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor's approval. Do not take this medicine if you are also taking zalcitabine, or other products containing lamivudine. If you are currently taking any of these medicines, tell your doctor before starting this medicine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including pancreatitis, hepatitis B infection or other liver problems, kidney problems, diabetes, allergies, pregnancy, or breast feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of abnormal liver function tests, severe liver problems, or lactic acidosis. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for taking this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. It is important not to miss doses of this medicine. Taking this medicine at the same times each day will help you to remember. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Do not exceed the recommended dose of this medicine without checking with your doctor. Exceeding the recommended dose of this medicine may not provide additional benefits and may increase the risks of side effects. This medicine is not a cure for HIV infection and will not prevent you from spreading HIV infection to others through sexual contact. This medicine may not prevent other infections. If your health changes, check with your doctor. Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the medicine is suddenly stopped. Laboratory and/or medical tests including liver and kidney function tests may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine. This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Caution is advised when using this medicine in children with a history of pancreatitis, or who have taken other medicines for HIV infection.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include headache, dizziness, and tiredness; decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or indigestion; difficulty sleeping; sinus drainage, and coughing; and changes in body fat (such as increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, or decreased fat in the arms and legs). If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience swelling or soreness of the mouth or tongue, numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, severe muscle or joint pain, unusual weakness or exhaustion, unusual bleeding or bruising, or depression/mental or mood changes. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience irregular heartbeat; persistent sore throat, chills, or fever; severe stomach pain, or darkening of your urine. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

If you have any questions concerning how to prevent spreading HIV infection to other people, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If you will be using this medicine for an extended period of time, be sure to obtain necessary refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.