Lamivudine
Uses
How it Works
Common Side effects
Patients who take Lamivudine may suffer from such side effects;
Fatigue,
Headache,
Insomnia,
Dyspepsia,
Nausea,
Cramps and Abdominal pain,
Dizziness,
Ear and/or Nasal infection,
Sore throat,
Skin rash,
Muscle pain,
Fever,
Chills,
Diarrhoea
Zidovudine
Uses
How it Works
Common Side effects
Patients who take Zidovudine may suffer from such side effects;
Diarrhea,
Decreased appetite,
Headaches,
Sleep disruption,
Body fat abnormalities,
Digestive upset or discomfort
Introduction
Lamivudine and Zidovudine are the two active ingredients that are contained in each of the tablets. It is used in the treatment of individuals suffering from HIV infections. Both of the drugs belong to the medication class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.
Use
This combined medication is prescribed to help individuals suffering from Human Immunodeficiency Viral infections to lead better and stronger lives. This drug does not cure HIV. The virus continues to live in the body. The medicine only helps the individuals suffering from the infection by preventing the occurrence of further serious complications like cancer or disease of any organ system. It can thus improve the life expectancy of the patient.
Both of the drugs are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. They block an enzyme called reverse transcriptase in the HIV virus. Once this enzyme gets blocked, the cell replication gets regulated because this enzyme is responsible for the formation of new DNA molecules in the organism. Only taking the two drugs individually may lead to the development of resistance in the organism against them and hence it is usually taken together as a combined medicine.
Dosage and administration
The combination drug comes in the form of a tablet and contains 150 mg of Lamivudine and 300 mg of Zidovudine. The medicine is prescribed to be taken two times a day after taking food or as directed by the doctor. Take the medicine along with a glass of water.
Remember to take this drug along with the other prescribed drugs for HIV treatment. This medication is contraindicated for use in children weighing less than 30 kilograms.
It is important that the patient follows all the instructions carefully, as directed by the doctor. Do not skip doses. Do not alter the drug dose without consulting the doctor since it may worsen the problems. Also, it is important to take the drug in constant time intervals so as to maintain its regular levels in the blood.
Warning
Also, inform the doctor immediately if there is any history of allergies to this drug or to any other substances.
The medication may affect your ability to drive or use heavy machinery hence do not do such activities that require mental skills and alertness.
Pregnant women and breast feeding mothers are to use this medication only if it has been prescribed by the doctor.
Seek emergency health care and stop using the medication if the symptoms worsen or if any serious side effects occur like mood changes (such as depression), nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and backache, fever, easy bruising, etc.
Side effects
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Insomnia
Tiredness
Dizziness
Headaches
Stuffy nose