Uses

Adefovir dipivoxil is indicated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in patients aged 12 years and older with evidence of active viral replication and persistent elevations of serum aminotransferases or histologically active disease, including lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to adefovir dipivoxil or any component of the formulation.

Side effects

Common adverse reactions include asthenia, headache, and abdominal pain. Nephrotoxicity is a significant concern, particularly at higher doses. Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis may occur after discontinuation.

Warnings

Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis have been reported after stopping therapy; monitor liver function closely for several months after discontinuation. Risk of nephrotoxicity, HIV resistance if used in undiagnosed HIV, and lactic acidosis with hepatomegaly.

How it works

Adefovir dipivoxil is an oral prodrug converted intracellularly to adefovir diphosphate, which inhibits hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase by competing with the natural substrate deoxyadenosine triphosphate. This leads to chain termination of viral DNA synthesis.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20–25°C (68–77°F); excursions permitted between 15–30°C (59–86°F).