Combivir Information  E-mail

What is Combivir?


Combivir contains two different drugs: lamivudine (3TC) and zidovudine (ZDV), which are used to treat HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.  Both components of Combivir are called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs).  Combivir must be combined with at least one other anti-HIV drug.  

How does Combivir Work?


Combivir works by preventing HIV from altering the genetic material of healthy T-cells.  This can prevent the cells from producing new copies of the virus.  It can also reduce HIV’s ability to infect new cells and can decrease the viral load in your body.  It is important  to note that Combivir does not reduce the risk of passing HIV to another person through sexual contact or sharing needles.

Does Combivir Cure AIDS?


Combivir is not a cure for HIV infection or AIDS.  Patients on Combivir may still get opportunistic infections (OI’s) or other conditions that happen with HIV infection.  OI’s are infections that develop because the immune system is weak.  Conditions such as: pneumonia, herpes virus, and mycobacterium avium complex infections.  It is recommended that you see your healthcare provider regularly while taking Combivir.

Is Combivir Right For You?


Always consult your healthcare provider to see if Combivir is right for your.  You should not take Combivir if your are allergic to any of its ingredients.  

The active ingredients of Combivir are: 150 mg of lamivudine and 300 mg of zidovudine.

The inactive ingredients are: colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, sodium starch glycolate and titanium dioxide.

What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Professional?


You should let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.  This is because studies have not shown whether or not Combivir can adversely affect a fetus.  It is also not known whether Combivir can pass into breast milk affect a nursing baby.

You should also let your healthcare professional know if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Hepatitis B
  • Low blood cell counts (anemia)

Using Combivir


Take Combivir as directed by your doctor, do not change your dose without talking to a healthcare professional.  Combivir should be taken with a full glass of water with or without food.  It is important not to miss a dose when you are taking Combivir as that can increase drug resistance making Combivir less effective.  If you miss a does take it right away, unless it is time for your next dose.  Then you can skip the missed does and take your next dose, do not take both doses.

You can click on this link to see Combivir Side Effects .

 
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