Trizivir (Abacavir/Lamivudine/Zidovudine)

What is Trizivir?

Trizivir is a combination antiviral medication with active ingredients abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine. It belongs to the group of human immunodeficiency virus medicines known as reverse transcriptase inhibitors.

What is Trizivir used for?

Trizivir is used for the treatment of HIV, which is said to cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It does not however cure HIV or AIDS.

How does Trizivir work?

Trizivir works by reducing the amount of HIV in the body, hence enabling better functioning of the immune system. It further diminishes the risk of getting the disease.

How to use Trizivir

Follow the doctor’s instructions and make sure you do not consume the medicine more than recommended. For any queries, read the information leaflet attached to the medicine.

Trizivir may be taken with or without food, usually in combination with other medicines. For best results, consume as directed.

Change of doses is unadvisable until the doctor asks you to do so. Remain under the care of a doctor and thoroughly go through the Medication Guide and Warning Card, listing the symptoms of allergies.

Trizivir warnings and precautions

As Trizivir does not cure HIV infection, it is recommended to stay under the care of a doctor. Also, Trizivir is said to cause dizziness, which is likely to increase with the intake of alcohol. So, avoid taking alcohol during the treatment.

Make sure you do not miss a dose. When the medicine is about to finish, go and get a new one. Do not stop taking the medicine as this may make the virus immune to the treatment and the virus may grow resistant.

Barrier methods or birth control must essentially be used as Trizivir does not stop the virus from spreading through sexual contact. Avoid sharing needles, injections or things like toothbrush and razor.

Any other drug containing abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine should be avoided as these are present in Trizivir. Since Trizivir helps in the improvement of functioning of the immune system, it is probable that the hidden infections may come up. In such cases, the patient is advised to check with the doctor.

Pregnant or lactating women are advised to discuss the risks involved with their doctors.

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

If you have missed your Trizivir dose, you should take it immediately. Avoid taking two doses at the same time. If it’s time for the next dose, just take the next scheduled dose.

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

If you have taken a Trizivir overdose, you should talk to your doctor immediately.

Trizivir interactions

Trizivir is likely to react with some medicines, so it is advised that you talk to a medical practitioner and consult him regarding other prescriptions.

Probenecid, valproic acid, ganciclovir, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and bone marrow suppressors are said to augment the risk of Trizivir’s side effects.

There are certain medicines that react with Trizivir and lower the efficacy of both the diseases. These include zalcitabine, doxorubicin, stavudine and ribavirin.

Further, Trizivir interacts with methadone and reduces the efficacy of Trizivir.

Trizivir side effects

Some minor side effects comprise diarrhea, nausea, tiredness, weakness, decreased appetite, nervousness, joint or muscle pain, etc.

Though it isn’t definite that everyone would witness one or the other side effects but if in case you do, do not take it lightly and if the problem persists, you should instantly seek medical aid.

Severe side effects of Trizivir include mouth ulcers, pale stools, unusual tiredness or weakness, allergic reactions, dark urine, depression, cramping, peeling skin, swollen lymph nodes, yellowing of the skin or eyes, excess hunger, thirst, fainting, fast, and shallow breathing.