Abacavir-Lamivudine Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: ABACAVIR/LAMIVUDINE - ORAL
Pronounced: (a-BAK-a-vir/la-MIV-ue-deen)

Abacavir-Lamivudine Oral Warning

In some patients, the abacavir in this product has caused a serious (sometimes fatal) allergic reaction after the drug is restarted or continued. Your doctor may order a blood test to measure your risk before you start this medication or take it again. If the blood test shows you are at greater risk, your doctor should discuss the risks and benefits of abacavir and other treatment choices with you. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include any of the following: fever, rash, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, muscle aches, sore throat, mouth sores, swollen glands (lymph nodes), cough, breathing problems. You may still have an allergic reaction to abacavir even if you do not have a rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you have stopped taking abacavir because of an allergic reaction, you must never take any form of abacavir again. Notify all of your doctors and pharmacists if you have stopped taking abacavir due to an allergic reaction. Read the warning card provided with this medication for more details.

Rarely, abacavir/lamivudine has caused a severe (sometimes fatal) liver and blood problem (lactic acidosis). Immediately tell your doctor if you develop symptoms of liver problems (e.g., persistent nausea, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin) or lactic acidosis (e.g., rapid breathing, drowsiness, muscle aches).

If you have hepatitis B infection along with HIV, your hepatitis symptoms may get worse or become very serious if you stop taking abacavir/lamivudine. Talk with your doctor before stopping this medication. Your doctor will perform liver function tests for several months after you stop lamivudine. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of worsening liver problems.