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Epzicom vs. Baraclude

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Abacavir/lamivudine (Epzicom) and entecavir (Baraclude) are both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) used to treat viral infections, but they target different viruses. Epzicom is used for HIV treatment when taken in combiantion with other HIV antiretrovirals, while Baraclude is used for hepatitis B. Epzicom is a combination medication taken as one tablet daily, whereas Baraclude is available as a tablet and a liquid solution, with dosing based on liver health and taken on an empty stomach. Epzicom is available as a generic, while only the tablet form of Baraclude has a generic version. Common side effects of Epzicom include headache and nausea, while Baraclude may cause headache and fatigue. Both medications carry risks of lactic acidosis and liver problems, but Epzicom also requires genetic testing for allergic reactions and is not recommended for those with heart issues. Baraclude is not ideal for people with both hepatitis B and HIV due to potential drug resistance.

Epzicom

 

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Entecavir

(Baraclude)

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Summary for Epzicom

Prescription only

Epzicom is a combination medication containing two HIV antiretrovirals (ARVs), abacavir (Ziagen) and lamivudine (Epivir). It's used with other HIV ARVs for the treatment of HIV.

Indications for Epzicom

  • HIV treatment

Pros and Cons for Epzicom

Pros

  • Contains 2 first choice HIV ARV options
  • Convenient dosing (1 tablet, once a day, with or without food)
  • Same dose for everyone weighing more than 55 lbs (25 kg)
  • Contains lamivudine, which also works against hepatitis B
  • Available as a generic, which can be more affordable

Cons

  • Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
  • Requires a genetic test called HLA-B 5701 because the allergic reaction can be fatal
  • Not a good option for people with heart problems
  • People taking methadone might need a higher dose of methadone after starting Epzicom
  • People with hepatitis B can have worsened hepatitis B if they suddenly stop taking Epzicom

Common Side Effects for Epzicom

  • Headache (7%)
  • Tiredness and fatigue (6%)
  • Dizziness (6%)
  • Nausea (5%)
  • Diarrhea (5%)
  • Rash (5%)
  • Fever (5%)

Warnings for Epzicom

  • SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION
  • WORSENING OF HEPATITIS B
  • LIVER PROBLEMS
  • IMMUNE RECONSTITUTION SYNDROME
  • HEART ATTACK

Summary for Baraclude

Prescription only

Entecavir (Baraclude) is a first-choice antiviral medication used for the treatment of hepatitis B. Some side effects of the medication can include headache and fatigue. Entecavir (Baraclude) is available as a tablet and a liquid solution that are typically taken once daily. While both forms of the medication have a brand name, only the tablet has a generic version available as well.

Indications for Baraclude

  • Hepatitis B virus (HBV)

Pros and Cons for Baraclude

Pros

  • First-choice medication for hepatitis B
  • Generally mild side effects
  • Not known to have a risk of kidney damage like other hepatitis B medications (e.g., tenofovir (Viread))
  • Can use in children as young as 2 years old
  • Available as a liquid solution for young children and people who have a hard time swallowing tablets

Cons

  • Not a cure for hepatitis B
  • Must take on an empty stomach (at least 2 hours after a meal and 2 hours before your next meal)
  • Requires dose adjustments for people with kidney problems
  • Not the best option for people who’ve taken lamivudine (Epivir HBV) in the past because of possible viral resistance
  • Not a first-choice option for people with both hepatitis B and HIV

Common Side Effects for Baraclude

Warnings for Baraclude

  • Worsening of hepatitis B after stopping treatment
  • Hepatitis B and HIV co-infection
  • Lactic acidosis and liver problems

Prices with our coupons for Epzicom vs. Baraclude

Price Card Drug Icon
Abacavir/Lamivudine90 tablets / 600mg/300mg of
$108.53$2,921.98
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Price Card Drug Icon
Entecavir30 tablets / 0.5mg
$20.29$1,146.44
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