Epivir Information  E-mail

What is Epivir?


Epivir is an antiviral drug that is used to treat HIV and Hepatitis B.  It is in a category of HIV drugs called reverse transcriptase inhibitors.  The HVB brand of Epivir is used to treat Hepatitis B and the regular Epivir brand is used to treat HIV.  Epivir is usually combined with another antiviral as part of a medication plan.

How does Epivir Work?


Epivir is a reverse transcriptase inhibitor that prevents HIV from altering the genetic material of cells.  It blocks HIV’s reverse transcriptase enzyme, which it needs to program the cell to make copies of itself.  Epivir does not reduce the risk of passing HIV to another person through sexual contact or sharing needles.

Does Epivir Cure Aids?


Epivir is not a cure for HIV infection or AIDS.  Patients on Epivir 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 Epivir.

Is Epivir Right For You?


It is recommended that you always consult a healthcare provider to see if Epivir is right for you.  You should not take Epivir if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

The active ingredient of Epivir is lamivudine. 

The inactive ingredients are:

  • Hypromellose
  • Magnesium stearate
  • Microcrystalline cellulose
  • Polyethylene glycol
  • Polysorbate 80
  • Sodium starch glycolate


What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Professional?     

Before you start to take Epivir, tell your doctor if you have:

  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Pancreatitis
  • Muscle Problems
  • Hepatitis B
  • Diabetes


It is not known whether or not Lamivudine is harmful to a fetus.  Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.  Women with HIV or AIDS should not breast-feed as the virus may be transmitted through breast milk.
    

Using Epivir


Epivir should be taken as directed by your doctor.  Do not change your dose or stop taking it without consulting a healthcare professional.  Take every dose with a glass of water, with or without food.  Epivir is most often taken twice a day in combination with other anti HIV drugs.  It is important that you do not miss a dose when you are taking Epivir as that can increase drug resistance making Epivir less effective.  If a dose is missed then take it right away.  If it is close to your next dose then skip the missed dose and just take your next scheduled dose.

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