Uses

Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents. At lower doses (100 mg), it is also indicated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adults with evidence of active viral replication and liver disease.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with previous hypersensitivity reaction to lamivudine or any component of the formulation.

Side effects

Common adverse effects include headache, nausea, fatigue, and upper respiratory infections. Serious adverse effects include lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis, severe hepatomegaly, and exacerbations of hepatitis B upon discontinuation. Peripheral neuropathy and pancreatitis have been reported.

Warnings

Risk of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with hepatic steatosis, which can be fatal. Patients with hepatitis B co-infection may experience severe acute exacerbation of hepatitis B upon discontinuation; monitor hepatic function for at least several months after stopping. Lamivudine alone is not an approved treatment for HIV; always use as part of combination antiretroviral therapy.

How it works

Lamivudine is a cytidine analogue that, after intracellular phosphorylation to its active triphosphate form, inhibits viral reverse transcriptase (for HIV) and the hepatitis B DNA polymerase through competitive incorporation into viral DNA, causing chain termination.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature, between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F), in a dry place. Keep out of reach of children.