Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
The combination of abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine is used, either alone or in combination with other medications, to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. These three drugs belong to a class of medications known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). They work by reducing the amount of HIV in the blood. While this combination does not cure HIV, it can lower the risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses, such as serious infections or cancer.
Uses and Dosage
To ensure the best results, take this medication precisely as directed by your doctor. It can be taken by mouth with or without food, typically twice daily. Make sure to consume a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) with each dose unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Since this combination product contains fixed doses of abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine, it should only be used if your doctor has determined that these doses are appropriate for you.
If you discontinue any medication containing abacavir, even for a short period, and then resume the drug, you have an increased risk of experiencing a severe allergic reaction, which could be fatal. Therefore, ensure you refill your prescription before running out. Do not cease treatment unless instructed by your doctor. Before restarting any medication containing abacavir, consult your doctor or pharmacist, and ensure you have easy access to medical assistance.
Consistency in taking this medication (as well as other HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor is crucial.
Avoid skipping doses, increasing your dose, taking the drug more frequently than prescribed, or discontinuing it (or other HIV medicines) even temporarily, unless instructed by your doctor. Skipping doses or altering your dosage without your doctor’s approval may lead to increased viral levels, making the infection more challenging to manage (resistant), or exacerbating side effects.
For optimal effectiveness, take this medication at evenly spaced intervals. Establish a routine of taking it at the same times every day to help you remember.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea (without other symptoms)
- difficulty sleeping
- fatigue
- fever (without other symptoms)
- gas
- general feeling of being unwell
- hair loss
- headache (without other symptoms)
- indigestion
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- muscle pain and inflammation (without other symptoms)
- nausea (without other symptoms)
- nail and skin colour changes
- skin rash (without other symptoms)
- taste changes
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- anxiety
- breast enlargement in men
- increased fat on the upper back, neck, breasts, and around the trunk; and loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face
- muscle weakness and pain
- unusual nosebleeds
- bruising
- blood in urine
- coughing blood
- bleeding gums
- cuts that don’t stop bleeding
- pale skin
- shortness of breath
- fatigue
- nausea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
Caution
- Before taking abacavir/lamivudine/zidovudine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of these drugs or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have kidney problems, liver problems (such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis), pancreatic disease (pancreatitis), a history of alcohol use, or low red/white blood cell counts.
- Abacavir, one of the components, may increase the risk of a heart attack. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor, and explore ways to lower your risk of heart disease. Inform your doctor if you have heart problems, smoke, or have other conditions that increase your risk of heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels.
- This medication may cause dizziness. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do them safely. Limit alcoholic beverages, as alcohol may increase the risk of liver problems and pancreatitis. If you use marijuana, discuss it with your doctor.
- Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially pancreatitis.
- If you are pregnant, inform your doctor before using this medication. Treatment can lower the risk of transmitting HIV infection to your baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Since this medication passes into breast milk and breast milk may transmit HIV, you should consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Trizivir is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Trizivir:
- abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine:
FAQ
Does Trizivir cause weight gain?
Changes in weight are not common with Trizivir.
What should I do if I forget a dose of Trizivir?
If you forget your dose of Trizivir, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Never double up on doses.
