General English name: Abacavir
Brand: Ziagen, Kivexa, Trizivir
Application: Treatment of acquired immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, AIDS
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Abacavir Drug Information
Drug Information: Abacavir is an antiviral drug. It is prescribed for HIV (acquired immunodeficiency virus). Abacavir slows the process of HIV infection but is not a definitive treatment. The HIV virus kills cells in the body called CD4 cells. These cells are white blood cells and they are important because they protect the body against infections. If HIV is not treated, the body’s immune system gradually weakens and loses its ability to defend itself against bacteria, viruses and other microbes.
Abacavir belongs to a group of antiviral drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Of course, some Abacavir brands also contain some other NTRIs. Abacavir is given in combination with a number of other antiretroviral drugs.
The two brands ive Kivexa (Abacavir with lamivudine) and rizTrizivir Ab Abacavir with lamivudine and zidovudine are some of the combination drugs that are more effective in treating AIDS. Simultaneous antiviral therapy is much more effective in treating HIV than prescribing a single drug. Combination administration also significantly reduces the risk of viral resistance to drugs.
Abacavir slows the progression of HIV by reducing the number of viruses in the body. This process strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of HIV-related infections. Abacavir can be prescribed by doctors who specialize in HIV.
Contraindications to Abacavir
Pay attention to the expiration date of the medicine and do not take it if the medicine in your hand has expired.
Never give the medicine to anyone else, even if you have the same symptoms.
Do not take more than the dose prescribed by your doctor.
Check for drug interactions and be sure to tell your doctor what other medications you are taking.
Abacavir drug interaction
Drug interactions may alter drug performance and increase the risk of serious side effects. Make a list of all the medicines (including prescription / over-the-counter and herbal medicines) you use and share them with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not change the dose of your medicine without consulting your doctor or stop taking the medicine.
Tips to consider before taking Abacavir
Some medications can not be prescribed under certain conditions, and some medications may be prescribed if additional treatment is needed. Therefore, it is best for your doctor to be aware of the following before taking Abacavir:
- If you decide to have a baby or are pregnant or if you are breast-feeding
- If your liver is malfunctioning
- If you have acute kidney problems
- If you are taking other medicines. These include all available medicines, whether prescribed or used by your doctor, such as herbal medicines and supplements.
- If you are allergic to any medicine. Most importantly, you should tell your doctor if you have already taken Abacavir and it has side effects.
Possible side effects of Abacavir
All drugs, along with their positive effects, can cause unwanted side effects in the body. However, these complications do not occur in all people. If there is a negative change in your health after taking the medicine, it is better to consult your doctor. Many of the side effects of abacavir may be similar to those of other illnesses. Out of every 10 patients who take this medicine, one person may experience the following side effects:
Headache: Talk to your doctor about this and ask him to prescribe a suitable painkiller for you.
Feeling sick and unwell: Avoid spicy foods. It is best to consult your doctor.
Diarrhea: Drink plenty of water to replenish lost water.
Skin rashes (hives) and fever: Consult a doctor immediately.
Loss of appetite, weight loss, feeling tired and weak: Consult a doctor immediately.
How to store Abacavir
Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.
Keep the medicine in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.