Epivir (Lamivudine) is a prescription medication used to reduce the multiplication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B virus in the body. The drug helps the immune system work better, lowering your chances of getting HIV complications like cancer and new infections. HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if left untreated. Epivir is for treating adults and children at least 3 months old. The drug is not a cure for HIV/AIDS. The active ingredient in Epivir is Lamivudine. Lamivudine belongs to a class of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It works by decreasing the amount of HIV and hepatitis B in the blood.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Epivir from the United Kingdom & Turkey (Zeffix), and Canada (Heptovir) by GSK. The generic Lamivudine comes from India also called Lamivir HBV manufactured by Cipla and from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Epivir. The most common side effects of Epivir may include the following:
• Cough;
• Diarrhea;
• Ear pain;
• Fever;
• Headache;
• Hearing difficulties;
• Nausea;
• Sore throat;
• Stuffy nose;
• Tiredness
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Appetite loss;
• Balance problems;
• Clay-coloured stools;
• Dark urine;
• Enlarged thyroid;
• Impotence;
• Menstrual changes;
• Severe pain in the upper stomach;
• Speaking or swallowing difficulties;
• Swelling around the midsection;
• Vomiting;
• Weakness or prickly feeling
These are not all of the side effects of Lamivudine. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Epivir if you are allergic to Lamivudine or any ingredient in Epivir. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have diabetes;
• Have had liver disease, especially hepatitis B or C;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have pancreatitis
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Epivir and other medicines, including bexarotene, cladribine, cobicistat, teriflunomide, sorbitol, and orlistat. Avoid pexidartinib, ribavirin, mipomersen, or lactitol with Epivir. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. HIV can be passed to the fetus if the virus is not controlled during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Women with HIV or AIDS should not breastfeed a baby. HIV may pass to a nursing baby through breast milk even if the baby is born without HIV. Use Epivir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You may take the drug with or without food. Lamivudine is not a cure for HIV or AIDS. You may still spread the disease. Continue to take all HIV medications and use an effective barrier method during sexual activity. Do not share personal items like needles, syringes, or toothbrushes. Epivir will strengthen your immune system and may begin to fight other infections in your body. If you have new or worsening symptoms of such infections, ensure you tell your doctor. Do not stop using Lamivudine without discussing it with your doctor. Keep Epivir and other medicines out of sight and reach of children. Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature.
Check out our latest Blog Post
Can a Plant Based Diet Lower Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer?