Lamivir is a nucleoside analogue used in conjunction with other antiretroviral medications for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection.
For adults and adolescents over 16 years infected with HIV-1, the recommended oral dosage is 300 mg daily, which can be taken as either 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily, along with other antiretroviral agents. If Lamivudine is given to a patient co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV, the dosage for HIV-1 treatment should be utilized as part of an appropriate combination therapy.
In pediatric patients aged 3 months to 16 years who are infected with HIV-1, the suggested oral dose of Lamivir is 4 mg/kg twice daily (with a maximum of 150 mg twice daily), taken alongside other antiretroviral medications.
Lamivir has the potential to cause severe inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which can be life-threatening. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any symptoms of pancreatitis, such as abdominal tenderness or swelling, nausea and vomiting, fever, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), or quickened breathing.
In rare instances, Lamivir may lead to lactic acidosis and hepatic steatosis, conditions stemming from liver damage that can pose significant health risks. Individuals with pre-existing liver disease face an increased risk of this side effect.
The kidneys play a role in eliminating Lamivir from the body. If you have kidney disease, your healthcare provider may require closer monitoring and might suggest a reduced dosage of lamivudine.
Lamivir can alter how fat is distributed in your body, potentially causing weight gain in atypical areas, such as the abdomen or the back of the neck (resulting in a "buffalo hump"), while you may lose weight in other regions.