Lamivudine Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: LAMIVUDINE-HBV - ORAL
Pronounced: (la-MIV-ue-deen)

Lamivudine Oral Warning

Lactic acid buildup in the blood (lactic acidosis) and sometimes fatal liver disease have occurred with the use of lamivudine-HBV, used both alone and in combination with other drugs for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

HIV counseling and testing should be offered to all patients both before and during treatment with lamivudine-HBV. Lamivudine-HBV contains a lower dose of the drug lamivudine, which is used to treat HIV infection as well as hepatitis B. Use of lamivudine-HBV in patients with unknown or untreated HIV infection could result in new types of HIV virus that are more difficult to treat (drug-resistant).

Severe worsening of hepatitis has occurred when this medication is stopped. Liver and blood testing should continue for several months after lamivudine-HBV is stopped. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Lamivudine Oral Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, fatigue, or infections of the ear/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

mental/mood changes
muscle/joint pain
persistent nausea/vomiting
stomach/abdominal pain
dark urine
yellowing of eyes/skin

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

deep/rapid breathing
drowsiness
tingling/numbness in hands or feet

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:

rash
itching
swelling
severe dizziness
trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Lamivudine Oral Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854- 1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).