Epivir is a prescription medicine that is licensed to treat chronic hepatitis B and HIV or AIDS. This eMedTV page explains how Epivir works for these conditions and offers an in-depth look at its effects, possible side effects, and dosing guidelines.
Abdominal pain, fatigue, and headaches are some of the most commonly reported Epivir side effects. This eMedTV Web page lists other possible side effects of Epivir, including rare but potentially serious side effects that require medical attention.
Epivir is a prescription drug that is used for the treatment of hepatitis B and HIV or AIDS. This part of the eMedTV Web site explains whether the medication is approved for children and discusses possible off-label Epivir uses.
The recommended Epivir dosage for hepatitis B treatment in adults is 100 mg once daily. This page on the eMedTV site also contains Epivir dosing recommendations for the treatment of HIV or AIDS and explains dosing guidelines for children.
Trimethaprim and sulfamethoxazole, ribavirin, and zalcitabine may cause Epivir drug interactions. This eMedTV article also lists interferon medications that may cause Epivir interactions and explains what may happen if these drugs are taken together.
Missing doses of Epivir may increase your risk of the virus becoming resistant to HIV medications. This eMedTV segment contains other important Epivir warnings and precautions. Information on who should not take the drug are also included.
An Epivir overdose may lead to pancreatitis or lactic acidosis and hepatic steatosis. This eMedTV resource lists possible signs of these conditions and explains what treatment options are available for an Epivir overdose.
At this time, it is not known whether Epivir is safe for pregnant women. This page from the eMedTV archives offers more information on Epivir and pregnancy, and describes the problems that occurred when Epivir was given to pregnant animals.
It is generally recommended that women taking Epivir avoid breastfeeding. This part of the eMedTV Web site provides more detailed information on Epivir and breastfeeding, and explains why it may be dangerous to breastfeed if you have HIV.
The earliest possible date that generic Epivir could be available is May 2010. This eMedTV page further discusses the availability of generic Epivir products and explains the difference between an active ingredient and a generic version of a drug.
