Also Known as Epzicom
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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Epzicom (Lamivudine/Abacavir sulfate) is a medication that is used alongside other HIV medications to manage HIV infection. By reducing the amount of HIV in your body, it helps improve your immune system, lowers the risk of complications, and enhances your quality of life. Abacavir and lamivudine belong to a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It's important to note that Epzicom is not a cure for an HIV infection.
Before you plan to buy Epzicom online for the management of an HIV infection, it is crucial to understand the effectiveness, potential side effects and, Epzicom cost.
HIV infection is a chronic viral infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to infections and diseases. HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. While there is no cure for HIV, treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help manage the infection and improve quality of life. Practicing safe sex and taking preventive measures can reduce the risk of transmission.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | Lamivudine: C8H11N3O3S Abacavir sulfate: C14H18N6O·H2SO4 |
License | US FDA, US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability | Lamivudine: 86% Abacavir: 83% |
Legal status | Prescription drug |
Chemical Name | Lamivudine/Abacavir sulfate |
Elimination half-life | Lamivudine: 5 to 7 hours Abacavir: About 1.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 300mg / 600mg |
Pregnancy | Consult a doctor |
Brands | Epzicom |
Protein binding | Lamivudine: 36% Abacavir: Approximately 50% |
PubChem CID | Lamivudine: 60825 Abacavir: 441300 |
MedlinePlus | a696011 |
ChEBI | Lamivudine: 63577 Abacavir: 421707 |
ATC code | Lamivudine: J05AF05 Abacavir: J05AF06 |
DrugBank | Lamivudine: DB00709 Abacavir: DB01048 |
KEGG | Lamivudine: D00353 Abacavir: D07057 |
Routes of administration | Oral |
The standard recommended dosing for Epzicom in adults is one tablet orally, once daily. Each tablet contains 600 mg of abacavir and 300 mg of lamivudine.
Only use this combination product containing fixed doses of abacavir and lamivudine if your doctor has determined that the prescribed doses of both medications are suitable for your specific condition.
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, regularly at the same time every day. Do not skip any doses or stop this medication even for a short period of time unless directed by your healthcare provider.
The active ingredients in Epzicom are Lamivudine and Abacavir sulfate.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, including allergies to abacavir or lamivudine.
Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have kidney problems, liver problems (such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis) or pancreatitis.
Abacavir has been associated with a potential increased risk of heart attacks.
Be cautious as this drug may cause dizziness.
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects, particularly pancreatitis.
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant as treatment can lower the risk of transmitting HIV to your baby.
This medication can pass into breast milk, and as breast milk can transmit HIV, breastfeeding should be avoided.
Do not take this medication with other medications that contain abacavir or lamivudine, emtricitabine. It may also interact with orlistat or sorbitol. Before beginning treatment with Epzicom or Epzicom generic version, it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.
Common side effects of Epzicom may include nausea, headache, diarrhea, fatigue, rash, and fever. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic reactions, liver problems, and changes in the immune system.
What is Epzicom?
Epzicom is a prescribed medication primarily used for patients with HIV infection. It consists of abacavir and lamivudine, which work to prevent the HIV virus from multiplying. Epzicom is always taken alongside other antiretroviral drugs and should be used according to the instructions provided by a healthcare professional.
What class of drug is Epzicom?
Epzicom belongs to the class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). NRTIs are a type of antiretroviral medication commonly used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. These drugs work by inhibiting the activity of the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is necessary for the replication of the HIV virus.
What is the dosing for Epzicom?
For adults, the suggested dosage of Epzicom is one tablet taken orally once a day. It is typically prescribed in combination with other antiretroviral drugs and can be taken with or without food. For pediatric patients, the dosing of Epzicom is based on their weight and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
What is a common concern with Epzicom?
A common concern with Epzicom is the risk of a severe hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir, one of its ingredients. This response has the potential to be fatal and requires urgent medical intervention. Around 5-8% of users may experience this reaction, characterized by symptoms like fever, rash, nausea, and respiratory issues.
What are the contraindications for Epzicom?
Epzicom has two contraindications: hypersensitivity to abacavir and a positive HLA-B5701 status. Hypersensitivity reactions to abacavir can be severe, and individuals with known hypersensitivity should not use Epzicom. Additionally, if a person tests positive for HLA-B5701, Epzicom should be avoided.