Epivir (Lamivudine)

What is Epivir?

Epivir is a member of class of medicines called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or NRTIs.

What is Epivir used for?

Epivir is used with other medications for controlling HIV infection and for lessening the threat of medical complications that result because of the spread of this infection in other parts of the body.

How does Epivir work?

Epivir works by limiting the activity of HIV virus that spreads in the body and starts infecting healthier parts. However, Epivir does not control transfer of the virus through sexual means.

How to use Epivir

The best source of any type of information related to the dosage of Epivir is your physician; however, you can check the instruction leaflet in case you have some queries related to the same.

This drug is taken orally, usually twice a day, but it is advisable to adhere to the doctor’s recommendation if you are instructed to take a different dose, as the medicine is directed to you according to your age and other medical factors. It is not advised to change the dose or start / stop it, without prior consultation with your doctor. Try not to miss any dose and take it at the same time every day for best results.

Epivir warnings and precautions

Discuss with your doctor, all medical problems that you have or have had in the past. Also inform him about all the treatments you are undergoing, before taking Epivir. An aware doctor will ensure that you face least of the side effects and get benefitted the most.

It is especially important to notify your physician about conditions including pancreatitis, kidney or liver related troubles like hepatitis B or C, and cirrhosis.

Keep away from driving, operating machinery and doing any heavy physical work after your Epivir dose. Also, do not consume alcohol during your course of treatment with Epivir.

Be cautious before giving this drug to children, as they are more sensitive to the effects of Epivir; therefore seek medical suggestion before starting with this medication in such a case.

What do I do if I have missed a Epivir dose?

If you have missed your Epivir dose you should take it when you recall. You can, however, skip the missed dose if the time of your regularly scheduled dose is approaching.

What do I do if I have taken a Epivir overdose?

If you have taken an Epivir overdose you should contact your physician or pharmacist. 

Epivir interactions

It has been known that in some cases, if Epivir is taken with some specific medications, the process changes the mechanism of action of either of the drugs.  Make sure your doctor knows about the possible drug interactions that can trouble you.

Inform your physician if you are taking interferon and zalcitabine. Also, Emitricitabine has similar ingredients as Epivir, and therefore, it should not be taken simultaneously.

Use of all prescription, non prescription and even herbal medicines should be discussed with the doctor in order to be safe from any medical complications that can arise due to drug interactions.

Epivir side effects

Commonly, headache, dizziness, nausea and sleeping problems can result because of the body’s response to the drug. These side effects of Epivir do not stay for long but if these symptoms start becoming bothersome, call your doctor.

Other serious symptoms like faster heartbeat, unusual mood swings, easy bruising, and sudden decrease in fats of limbs, need immediate medical attention.