Generic
Lamivudine
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Lamivudine is used in the treatment of HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It prevents the multiplication of viruses in human cells and helps clear up the infection.
Description
Lamivudine is a nucleoside analogue that is phosphorylated in the body to the active triphosphate form. In the active form, it inhibits hepatitis B virus polymerase and HIV reverse transcriptase enzymes. It inhibits reverse transcription via DNA chain termination after incorporation of the nucleoside analogue. The drug is rapidly absorbed from the GI tract and has low plasma protein binding.
Indications
- HIV infection (in combination with other antiretrovirals)
- Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
Therapeutic class
Antiretroviral
Pharmacological class
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI)
Pharmacology
Lamivudine is a nucleoside analogue that is phosphorylated intracellularly to its active 5'-triphosphate metabolite. The principal mode of action is inhibition of reverse transcription via DNA chain termination after incorporation of the nucleoside analogue.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase and HBV polymerase through viral DNA chain termination.
Dosage
HIV Infection (Adult):
- 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily (with other antiretrovirals)
Chronic Hepatitis B (Adult):
- 100 mg once daily
- Co-infected patients (HIV+HBV): 300 mg once daily or in 2 divided doses
Children (HIV): 3 mth-12 yr: 4 mg/kg twice daily; Max: 300 mg/day
Children (Hepatitis B): >2 yr: 3 mg/kg once daily; Max: 100 mg/day
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Can be taken with or without food
- Take at the same time each day
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rash
Precautions & warnings
- Regular blood tests needed to monitor liver function and blood counts
- Caution when driving or doing activities requiring concentration (may cause dizziness or drowsiness)
- Avoid alcohol (may increase liver damage risk)
- If HIV positive, avoid unprotected sex and sharing personal items
- Consult your doctor during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Lamivudine or its components
- Lactation
Drug interactions
- High doses of trimethoprim (co-trimoxazole) may inhibit renal excretion
- May antagonize the antiviral action of zalcitabine
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Lamivudine; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Lamivudine may be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the fetus. Consult your doctor.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Lamivudine is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (weight and age-based).
Geriatric use
Use with caution in elderly; no special dose adjustment may be needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Use with caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Safe in liver disease; no dose adjustment needed.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; excessive doses may increase side effects.
Storage conditions
Store in a dry place away from light and heat; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Lamivudine