Ziagen (Abacavir)

What is Ziagen?

Ziagen is an antiviral medication.  It comes from the class of the medicines called reverse nucleoside transcriptase inhibitors.

What is Ziagen used for?

Ziagen is used for treating the infections caused by HIV infection that spreads by affecting the immune system. It is used to restrict the activity of virus and make the immune system stronger.

How does Ziagen work?

Ziagen works by limiting the multiplication of the HIV virus in the body, thereby, preventing the body from getting other seasonal and non-seasonal infections easily.

How to use Ziagen

This drug is recommended to be taken once or twice per day, but the doses can differ according to many other medical factors. It is thus wise to clarify dosage-related queries with your doctor.

Ziagen can be taken with or without food or as per the medical instructions and the form of medicine that you are taking, e.g. tablet or liquid form. In case you have been directed to take the medicine in liquid form, use only the special dose measuring spoon to measure the exact dosage.

Keep the interval of time after which you take the medicine constant and take it every day. Try not to miss the dose as it gives best results if taken regularly.

Ziagen warnings and precautions

Intimate your doctor about all kinds of allergies you may have due to this medicine, its ingredients, or other medicines.

If you have or had a medical history of problems related to liver and kidney, let your doctor know. High or low blood pressure, heart strokes, diabetes, and cholesterol levels should also be taken into consideration before starting the treatment with Ziagen.

HIV-infected people should use effective birth control measures so that the infection does not spread. It is highly recommended not to take alcohol with this drug, as the consumption of alcohol can increase some of the side effects of this drug. 

Before getting any surgical procedure done, let your doctor know about the use of Ziagen. Pregnant and lactating females should only be given Ziagen if clearly required.

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

If you have missed your Ziagen dose, you should take it when you recall. You are advised to skip the missed dose if the time for your next dose is approaching.

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

If you have taken a Ziagen overdose, you should call your physician for help. It is not recommended to try any antidote on your own.

Ziagen interactions

If your doctor is aware of your medical history and also knows your medical status, he will make sure you do not have to go through medical complications that result because of drug interactions.

Ziagen’s use is forbidden if you are already taking some medications that have the same ingredients as Ziagen. For averting other interactions, tell your doctor about all the prescription, non-prescription and herbal medicines that you are on.

Ziagen side effects

When you start with your course of treatment with Ziagen, you may come across some mild side effects because of the body’s adjustment to the mechanism of the drug. These include vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and nausea. These side effects fade away gradually. If these do not disappear in two or three days and start becoming troublesome, contact your doctor.

Serious side effects of Ziagen are acute allergic reactions like hives, skin rashes and unnecessary anxiety. These side effects require an immediate medical attention.