Lamivudine

Generic Name : Lamivudine

TradeName : HEPITEC, LADIWIN, LAMDA, LAMIVIR, LAMIVIR-HBV, RETROLAM-150

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : It is a synthetic nucleoside analogue active agianst HIV

When it is to be taken : Lamivudine may be used prophylactically in health care workers at risk of acquiring HIV infection after occupational exposure to the virus. In combination with zidovudine for treatment of HIV infection.

How it should be taken : Adults: 150 mg twice daily administered in combination with zidovudine. For patients with body weight less than 50 kg,the recommended oral dose is 2 mg/kg twice daily.Children(3 months to 12 years): The recommended dose is 4 mg/kg twice daily to a maximum of 150 mg twice a day.

Special Instruction :
Contraindication: Hypersensitivity

Side Effects :
Pancreatitis with symptoms of nausea,vomiting, severe abdominal or stomach pain is more frequent in children. Paresthesia with symptoms of tingling, burning, numbness or pain in the hands, arms, feet or legs are also moe frequent in children.

Other Precautions :
Renal impairment. Advice parents to monitor paediatric patients for symptoms of pancreatitis.

Storage Conditions :
Keep out of the reach of children. Store away from heat and direct light. Store the oral solution form in the refrigerator. However, keep the medicine from freezing. Do not store the capsules or long-acting capsules in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.