About abacavir + lamivudine
Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor combination
Used for
- Treatment of HIV-1 infection with other antiretroviral medicines
Usual adult dose
One tablet once daily, combined with other antiretroviral medicines.
Usual dose in children
Not generally used for children; dosing depends on age and weight.
Common side effects
- Headache, nausea, tiredness, or diarrhea
- Sleep problems
- Serious allergic reaction to abacavir
- Rare lactic acidosis or liver enlargement
Important warnings
- Abacavir can cause a serious, potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction; HLA-B*5701 testing is required before starting.
- Stop permanently if hypersensitivity is suspected; never restart after a suspected reaction.
- Not suitable for some people with moderate or severe liver impairment.
- Stopping treatment can cause hepatitis B to flare in people with hepatitis B infection.
Pregnancy
May be used during pregnancy when clinically appropriate; HIV treatment should continue under specialist care.
Breastfeeding
HIV transmission through breast milk is possible; breastfeeding is generally not recommended where safe alternatives are available.
Interactions
- Alcohol may increase abacavir exposure.
- Do not combine with other medicines containing abacavir or lamivudine.
- Ribavirin with lamivudine may reduce ribavirin effectiveness.
- Methadone may require monitoring because abacavir can lower methadone levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.