Indications 

Ziagen Solution is a prescription medicine used in conjunction with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. 

Classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), Ziagen Solution works by reducing the HIV levels in the blood. It does not cure HIV, but it can lower the risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses like infections or cancer. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet for Ziagen Solution before the initial use and with every prescription refill. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

The appropriate dosage of this medication is determined according to individual medical conditions and treatment response, with consideration of weight for children. 

Typically, Ziagen Solution is taken once or twice daily as prescribed by the doctor, irrespective of meals. Use the provided measuring cup to measure the dose accurately. 

For optimal results, take this medication regularly at evenly spaced intervals. To aid with remembering, take it at around the same time(s) daily. 

Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely when taking this medication and other HIV drugs. Never skip doses, alter your dosage, take it more frequently than prescribed, or stop taking it or other HIV medicines unless instructed by your doctor. Skipping or changing doses without approval may lead to increased virus levels, treatment resistance, or exacerbate side effects. 

If you discontinue Ziagen Solution for any reason, even briefly, and you are not allergic to it, consult your doctor before resuming. Reinitiating this medication could trigger a severe allergic or life-threatening reaction, regardless of previous allergic history. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Fatigue 
• Sleep problems, unusual dreams 
• Headache, fatigue, fever, chills, overall feeling of sickness 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Skin rash 
• (In children) Congested nose, sneezing, sore throat, ear pain 

Tell your doctor if any of these common side effects persist or get worse. 

Serious Side Effects  

• Intense upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss 
• Swelling in the midsection area 
• Dark urine, pale stools, or jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) 
• Unusual fatigue 
• Chest pain or pressure spreading to the jaw or shoulder 

Contact your doctor right away if you encounter any of the above-listed severe side effects. 

Some people taking Ziagen Solution may experience lactic acidosis, a serious condition that can be fatal. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Unusual muscle pain 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Stomach pain 
• Vomiting 
• Irregular heart rate 
• Dizziness 
• Cold sensation 
• Extreme weakness or tiredness 

Ziagen Solution can affect the immune system, potentially leading to delayed side effects. Inform your doctor if you experience: 

• Signs of a new infection:  
• Fever 
• Night sweats 
• Swollen glands 
• Cold sores 
• Cough 
• Wheezing 
• Diarrhea 
• Weight loss 
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing, balance or eye movement issues, weakness, or tingling sensations 
• Neck or throat swelling (enlarged thyroid) 
• Menstrual changes 
• Erectile dysfunction 

Allergic Reactions 

Discontinue Ziagen Solution immediately and contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction from any two or more of the following specific side effect groups: 

• Group 1: Fever 
• Group 2: Rash 
• Group 3: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain 
• Group 4: General feeling of illness, severe fatigue, body aches 
• Group 5: Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat 

If you have experienced an allergic reaction to Ziagen Solution, never use it again.  

The side effects of Ziagen Solution listed here are not exhaustive. Tell your doctor of any other adverse reactions that may arise. 

Cautions 

Taking Ziagen Solution will not stop you from spreading HIV to others. Avoid unprotected sex, sharing razors or toothbrushes, and never share needles. Discuss safe sex practices with your doctor.  

Do not take Ziagen Solution if you are allergic to abacavir or any of the inactive ingredients in the solution. 

Before starting treatment with Ziagen Solution, inform your doctor about your medical history, particularly if you have: 

• Liver issues (e.g., hepatitis B or C or cirrhosis) 
• Kidney problems 
• If you consume alcohol 

The use of Ziagen Solution could raise the chance of a heart attack. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of treatment and how to reduce heart disease risk. Inform your doctor if you have heart issues, smoke, or have conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Certain substances like alcohol, methadone, and orlistat may interact with Ziagen Solution. To avoid potential issues, be sure to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products. 

Do not take Ziagen Solution with other medications containing abacavir. Check the labels of all your prescription drugs to ensure they do not have abacavir. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant and take your medications as directed to manage your infection. Without proper control during pregnancy, HIV can be transmitted to the baby.  

Women with HIV or AIDS should avoid breastfeeding their babies. Even if the baby is born without HIV, there is a risk of transmitting the virus through breast milk.