Indications 

Epivir is a trading name representing lamivudine, a synthetic nucleoside analogue renowned for its efficacy against HIV-1 and HBV. EPIVIR serves as a nucleoside analogue, recommended explicitly for employment with other antiretroviral agents, for the therapeutic management of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. 

Note that the prescribed dosage of this pharmaceutical formulation is intended solely for treating HIV-1 and not for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. 

Uses and Dosage 

Epivir is a pharmaceutical agent with antiviral properties that effectively inhibit the replication of HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) within the human body. Epivir plays a vital role in mitigating their detrimental effects by impeding the multiplication of these viruses. 

Optimal Dosage for Adult Patients 

The recommended dosage regimen for EPIVIR in adults afflicted with HIV-1 infection is 300 mg per day. Epivir can be administered as either 150 mg taken orally twice daily or 300 mg taken orally once daily, with or without food. In cases where lamivudine is being issued to patients infected with HIV-1 and HBV, the dosage prescribed for HIV-1 therapy should be utilized as part of a suitable combination treatment plan. 

Optimal Dosage for Pediatric Patients 

For pediatric patients affected by HIV-1 infection, who weigh a minimum of 14 kg and are suitable for solid dosage forms, the preferred formulation of EPIVIR is the scored tablet. Before prescribing EPIVIR cut tablets, an assessment should be conducted to determine the child’s ability to swallow tablets safely and reliably. When pediatric patients cannot meet the requirements for safely ingesting EPIVIR tablets, the oral solution formulation may be prescribed. 

Side Effects 

Lamivudine can impact the immune system, potentially leading to specific side effects that may manifest weeks or months after administering this medication. Inform your doctor if you experience any of the following: 

• Indications of a new infection include fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss 
• Difficulties with speaking or swallowing, problems with balance or eye movement, or sensations of weakness or tingling 
• Swelling in the neck or throat (enlarged thyroid), menstrual changes, or impotence 

Common side effects associated with Epivir may include: 

• Nausea and diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Fever, tiredness, or a general sense of feeling unwell 
• An ear infection is characterized by ear pain or a sensation of fullness, difficulty hearing, drainage from the ear, or irritability in children. 
• Nasal or throat infection, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat, or cough. 

Please note that the list, as mentioned above, does not encompass all possible side effects, and there is a potential for additional manifestations to occur. Consult your healthcare provider for comprehensive information. 

Cautions 

Administer Epivir to individuals with a known hypersensitivity to lamivudine. Moreover, the concomitant use of Epivir-HBV, expressly indicated for the treatment of hepatitis B, with other medications containing lamivudine or emtricitabine, such as Atripla, Biktarvy, Cimduo, Combivir, Complera, Descovy, Emtriva, Epzicom, Genvoya, Odefsey, Stribild, Symfi, Triumeq, Trizivir, and Truvada, should be avoided. 

Before initiating treatment, inform your healthcare provider about any history of liver disease, including hepatitis B or C, liver transplantation, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or diabetes. Notably, the liquid formulation of lamivudine contains 3 to 4 grams of sucrose per dose, which is vital to consider for individuals with diabetes. 

There is a potential risk of developing lactic acidosis, a severe condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream. This risk may be heightened in other medical conditions, prolonged use of HIV medications, or in female patients. Consult with your doctor regarding your risk profile.