Key facts about Abacavir
What dosages is Abacavir available in?
Abacavir is available as an oral tablet the contains 600 mg of Abacavir and 300 mg of lamivudine.
What is Abacavir used for?
Abacavir is an HIV ARV combo that is used to treat HIV.
How does Abacavir work?
Abacavir contains two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). They insert themselves into the virus’ DNA and stop the DNA-making process. When this happens, the HIV virus can’t make copies of itself.
How do I take Abacavir?
Abacavir is typically taken as 1 tablet by mouth once daily.
Is it safe for me to take Abacavir?
Abacavir is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have the presence of HLA-B*5701 allele, a prior hypersensitivity reaction to Abacavir or lamivudine, or moderate or severe hepatic impairment.
Abacavir Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Abacavir include:
- Headache
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fever
Abacavir Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Abacavir. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Symptoms from 2 or more of the following groups:
- Fever
- Rash
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
- Tiredness, achiness, feeling ill
- Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Abacavir
The following medications may interact with Abacavir:
- Methadone – An increased methadone dose may be required in a small number of patients
- Sorbitol – Coadministration of lamivudine and sorbitol may decrease lamivudine concentrations; when possible, avoid chronic coadministration
- Riociguat – The riociguat dose may need to be reduced
Who makes Abacavir?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Abacavir safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Abacavir will harm your unborn baby. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant. There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to
Abacavir during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263.
