Combivir Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (la-MIV-ue-deen/zye-DOE-vue-deen)
Combivir Oral Warning
Zidovudine, one of the ingredients of this drug, has caused severe blood problems including a decrease in red blood cells (anemia) and white blood cells (neutropenia). This occurs more frequently in people with advanced HIV disease (AIDS). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of anemia (new/severe tiredness, breathing problems, weakness, bluish fingernails/lips, pale skin, fast heartbeat). Low white blood cells can make you more likely to get serious (sometimes fatal) infections. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a new fever, chills, cough, breathing problems, loss of appetite, weight loss, new diarrhea, sore throat.
This medication may also cause muscle problems (myopathy). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of myopathy (e.g., decrease in muscle size (wasting), muscle weakness/pain/tenderness).
Rarely, zidovudine and lamivudine have caused a severe (sometimes fatal) liver and blood problem (lactic acidosis). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of liver problems (persistent nausea, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin) or lactic acidosis (rapid breathing, drowsiness, muscle aches).
If you have hepatitis B infection along with HIV, you may have a serious worsening of hepatitis symptoms if you stop taking 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.
Combivir Oral Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Headache, tiredness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, dizziness, stuffy nose, cough, or constipation 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.
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