Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Lamivudine-HBV is employed for the treatment of hepatitis B infection. This medication does not constitute a cure for hepatitis B, nor does it prevent the transmission of hepatitis B to others. As a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), lamivudine-HBV functions by impeding the growth of the virus, thereby reducing the extent of liver damage inflicted by the hepatitis B virus.
Uses and Dosage
Take lamivudine-HBV orally, with or without food, following the instructions provided by your doctor, usually once a day. The prescribed dosage is contingent on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.
Consistency is crucial for optimal results, so make sure to use this medication regularly. Its effectiveness is maximized when the drug concentration in your body remains constant. Administer it at the same time each day, and do not skip any doses.
Avoid discontinuing this medication without consulting your doctor. Stopping the medication abruptly may lead to a deterioration of your condition, a diminished response to the treatment, or the emergence of drug-resistant strains of the virus during or after the treatment period. If new symptoms arise during or after the treatment, promptly inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- headache
- difficulty falling sleeping or staying asleep
- depression
- stuffy nose
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- vomiting
- nausea
- ongoing pain that begins in the stomach area but may spread to the back
- numbness, tingling, or burning in the fingers or toes
- excessive tiredness
- weakness
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- muscle pain
Caution
- Before initiating lamivudine-HBV, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to it or if you are allergic to any other substances. This product might contain inactive ingredients that could elicit allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using lamivudine-HBV, communicate your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of pancreatitis, HIV infection, kidney disease, blood disorders, or liver disease.
- This medication has the potential to cause dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana may exacerbate these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Liquid forms of lamivudine-HBV contain sugar (sucrose). If you are diabetic and using the liquid form, closely monitor your blood sugar levels when starting this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
- Children may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, particularly the increased risk of pancreatitis.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication has not been proven to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B from the mother to the newborn. Consult your doctor for more information.
- This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Epivir HBV is available in the following forms and strengths:
- lamivudine tablet:
- 100 mg
FAQ
Can Epivir HBV cure hepatitis B?
No, Epivir HBV isn’t a cure for hepatitis B. Currently, all available medications for hepatitis B can only slow down the development of serious liver problems, including liver cancer.
What type of drug is Epivir?
Epivir is an antiviral medicine that prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B virus from multiplying in your body.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/lamivudine/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/epivir-hbv-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lamivudine-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20064446
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a696011.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16826/epivir-hbv-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/epivir-hbv.html
