EPIVIR

Drug Name: EPIVIR

EPIVIR DESCRIPTION:
LAMIVUDINE ORAL SOLUTION (lam-EYE-view-deen)

COMMON EPIVIR BRAND NAME(S):
Epivir

EPIVIR SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, change in appetite, dizziness, weakness or muscle aches may occur. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: a skin rash, fever, chills, stuffy nose, cough, severe weakness, stomach pain, tingling of the hands or feet, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, rapid breathing. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE EPIVIR:
EPIVIR: Take this by mouth exactly as directed usually once or twice a day. Follow your dosing instructions closely. May be taken with or without food. EPIVIR is often given in combination with zidovudine (AZT) for best effects. Follow directions for taking zidovudine carefully.

EPIVIR WARNING:
Lamivudine has caused severe, even fatal, liver and blood acid-base problems (lactic acidosis). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop dark urine, unusual fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes, rapid breathing, drowsiness, muscle aches, or stomach/abdominal pain.

EPIVIR USES:
Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor antiviral agent used in combination with other antivirals for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. It works by slowing the growth of the virus. EPIVIR is not a cure for HIV, nor does it prevent the passing of HIV to others.

OTHER USES OF EPIVIR:
EPIVIR may also be used to prevent HIV after coming in contact with the virus.

EPIVIR PRECAUTIONS:
Before taking this, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, pancreatic disorders, hepatitis B, any allergies, heart disease, major surgery/infection/injury, liver disease, history of alcohol usage. Lamivudine in combination with zidovudine should be used with extreme caution in children with pancreatitis. EPIVIR should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if lamivudine is excreted into breast milk. Because breast milk can transmit HIV, do not breast-feed.

EPIVIR DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of: sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

EPIVIR OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

EPIVIR NOTES:
EPIVIR is not a cure for HIV infection but has shown some positive results. The long-term effects are unknown at this time. Keep all doctor appointments and scheduled laboratory tests as your condition will be monitored closely. Be aware that EPIVIR does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to others through sexual contact or blood contamination. This is a potent medication which should not be shared. Do not allow anyone else to take your medication.

MISSED EPIVIR DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

EPIVIR STORAGE:
Store the solution in the refrigerator or a cool area at a temperature between 36 and 77 degrees F (2 to 25 degrees C) away from heat as directed. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.