Get your own Free Home Page
OTHER NAMES- 3TC, Epivir
WHY THIS MEDICATION IS GIVEN
Lamivudine is used (in combination with Retrovir (zidovudine, AZT)), for the treatment of HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS. Lamivudine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Lamivudine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medication may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Make sure your doctor knows if you have any of the following medical conditions:
WHERE TO KEEP
Keep it in the bottle it came in and store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Keep the bottle out of reach of children.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Donot double doses.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Lamivudine may cause headache, muscle soreness, nausea, or trouble in sleeping. These effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they become bothersome, check with your doctor.
If you notice any severe nausea and vomiting; severe stomach pain; tingling, burning, numbness and pain in the hands or feet; convulsions (seizures); fever and chills; shortness of breath; skin rash and itching; or sore throat, call your doctor immediately.