Lamvir (other name Epivir HBV)
Lamvir (other name Epivir HBV) 100mg
Package | Per Pill | Special Price | |
---|---|---|---|
360 pills
Free Express Delivery
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$0.86 |
Only $310
|
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270 pills
Free Regular Delivery
|
$0.89 |
Only $241
|
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180 pills
|
$0.95 |
Only $171
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120 pills
|
$1.03 |
Only $124
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90 pills
|
$1.11 |
Only $100
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60 pills
|
$1.28 |
Only $77
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30 pills
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$1.77 |
Only $53
|
Epivir-HBV: Comprehensive Medication Guide
Product Overview
Epivir-HBV contains lamivudine and is a nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults. It functions by inhibiting the HBV reverse transcriptase, an enzyme crucial for viral replication. By blocking this enzyme, Epivir-HBV reduces the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body, preventing it from multiplying and infecting new liver cells. This medication helps to manage the infection and reduce liver damage associated with chronic hepatitis B.
Common Use and Mechanism of Action
Epivir-HBV is specifically designed to manage chronic hepatitis B. Its primary action involves reducing the viral load by blocking the ability of the virus to replicate. This helps to slow the progression of liver damage and reduce the risk of complications associated with chronic HBV infection. Regular use as prescribed by a healthcare provider is essential for optimal results.
Dosage and Administration
Always use Epivir-HBV exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage instructions will be on the medicine label. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule for the best results.
Key Points for Dosage and Administration:
- A patient leaflet is provided with Epivir-HBV. Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions.
- Take Epivir-HBV orally, with or without food.
- Continue taking Epivir-HBV even if you feel well, and do not skip any doses.
- Take Epivir-HBV at the same time each day to help you remember.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
- Consult your healthcare provider with any questions about using Epivir-HBV.
- Follow the prescribed dosage as indicated by your healthcare provider.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of Epivir-HBV is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Follow these guidelines:
- Store tablets at room temperature, 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) is permitted.
- Store the oral solution at room temperature, 68 to 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C).
- Canadian product: Store tablets between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 and 30 degrees C). Store the oral solution between 59 to 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C).
- Keep all medicines out of reach of children and pets.
Important Safety Information
Before using Epivir-HBV, it is crucial to be aware of the following safety information:
Contraindications:
- Do NOT use Epivir-HBV if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
- Do NOT use if you have HIV infection, abnormal liver function tests, severe liver problems, or lactic acidosis.
- Do NOT use if you are taking zalcitabine or other medicines containing lamivudine.
Medical Conditions:
Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, particularly:
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicines, herbal preparations, or dietary supplements.
- If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances.
- If you have muscle problems, swelling of the pancreas, abnormal blood counts, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or a nerve disorder.
Drug Interactions:
Some medicines may interact with Epivir-HBV. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any of the following:
- Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole: May increase the risk of Epivir-HBV's side effects.
- Zalcitabine: May decrease Epivir-HBV's effectiveness.
This list may not be exhaustive. Consult your healthcare provider about potential interactions with other medications. Check with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medicine.
Other Precautions:
- Epivir-HBV may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution when driving or performing other tasks that require alertness.
- Your doctor will offer counseling and testing for HIV infection before and during treatment with Epivir-HBV. Do not take Epivir-HBV if you have HIV infection, as it could make the HIV infection harder to treat.
- Epivir-HBV is not a cure for hepatitis B virus infection and may not reduce the risk of liver cancer or cirrhosis.
- Some patients have developed hepatitis B virus that is resistant to Epivir-HBV.
- Your doctor will perform lab tests for several months after you stop taking Epivir-HBV. Some patients have had worsening hepatitis B virus after stopping use of Epivir-HBV.
- Epivir-HBV has not been shown to reduce the risk of passing hepatitis B to other people through sexual contact or blood contamination. Use barrier forms of contraception (e.g., condoms) if you are infected with hepatitis B virus.
- Diabetes patients: Epivir-HBV contains sucrose and may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely.
- Lab tests, including liver and kidney function tests, may be performed while you use Epivir-HBV.
- Caution is advised when using Epivir-HBV in children with a history of swelling of the pancreas. Epivir-HBV should not be used in children younger than 2 years old.
- If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Epivir-HBV while you are pregnant. Epivir-HBV is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Epivir-HBV.
Potential Side Effects
All medicines can cause side effects, though many people experience none or only minor side effects. Consult your doctor if any of the following common side effects persist or become bothersome:
Common Side Effects:
- Changes in body fat
- Chills
- Coughing
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty sleeping
- Dizziness
- Ear, nose, and throat infection
- General body discomfort
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Sinus drainage
- Sore throat
- Stomach discomfort
- Tiredness
Severe Side Effects:
Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following severe side effects occur:
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue)
- Dark urine
- Depression (mental or mood changes)
- Enlarged stomach
- Increased heart rate
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Persistent sore throat, chills, or fever
- Severe muscle or joint pain
- Stomach tenderness or pain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual weakness or exhaustion
- Vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
This is not an exhaustive list of all potential side effects. If you have questions about side effects, consult your healthcare provider. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
FAQ
What is Epivir-HBV used for?
Epivir-HBV is used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection by reducing the amount of virus in the body.
How should I take Epivir-HBV?
Take Epivir-HBV orally, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not miss any doses.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can I take Epivir-HBV if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of using Epivir-HBV with your doctor. It is found in breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
What are the common side effects of Epivir-HBV?
Common side effects include changes in body fat, chills, coughing, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and nausea.
When should I seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, dark urine, depression, enlarged stomach, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
How should I store Epivir-HBV?
Store tablets at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Store the oral solution at room temperature.
Does Epivir-HBV cure hepatitis B?
No, Epivir-HBV does not cure hepatitis B but helps to manage the infection by reducing the viral load.
Can Epivir-HBV prevent the spread of hepatitis B?
No, Epivir-HBV has not been shown to reduce the risk of passing hepatitis B to others. Use barrier contraception methods if you are infected.
Is Epivir-HBV safe for children?
Caution is advised when using Epivir-HBV in children with a history of swelling of the pancreas. It should not be used in children younger than 2 years old.