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Epzicom vs. Combivir

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

Key takeaways

Epzicom (abacavir/lamivudine) and Combivir (lamivudine/zidovudine) are both combination medications used to treat HIV. Both contain lamivudine, but Epzicom pairs it with abacavir, while Combivir pairs it with zidovudine. Epzicom is taken once daily, whereas Combivir needs to be taken twice daily. Epzicom requires a genetic test before starting due to the risk of a severe allergic reaction, while Combivir does not. Combivir can cause serious blood and muscle problems, which are not common with Epzicom. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable. However, neither is recommended for people with kidney or liver problems since their doses can't be adjusted.

Epzicom

 

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Combivir

 

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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 Combivir

Prescription only

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

Indications for Combivir

  • HIV treatment

Pros and Cons for Combivir

Pros

  • Two HIV ARVs in one tablet so you don't have to take as many pills
  • Contains lamivudine, which also works against hepatitis B
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Available as a generic, which can be more affordable
  • The recommended dose is the same for everyone who weighs at least 30 kg

Cons

  • Needs to be taken twice daily
  • Contains zidovudine, which can cause serious blood and muscle problems
  • Not a good option if you have kidney or liver problems since the dose can't be adjusted
  • Some people experience fat loss in their face, limbs, and buttocks
  • Not a good HIV ARV option if you are going to be treated with ribavirin for hepatitis C

Common Side Effects for Combivir

  • Headache (35%)
  • Nausea (33%)
  • Fatigue/tiredness (27%)
  • Runny nose and congestion (20%)
  • Cough (18%)
  • Diarrhea (18%)
  • Nausea and vomiting (13%)
  • Muscle and nerve pain (12%)
  • Insomnia/difficulty sleeping (11%)

Warnings for Combivir

  • BLOOD AND BONE MARROW PROBLEMS
  • MUSCLE PAIN AND WEAKNESS
  • LIVER PROBLEMS
  • WORSENING OF HEPATITIS B
  • PANCREATITIS
  • IMMUNE RECONSTITUTION SYNDROME
  • FAT REDISTRIBUTION

Prices with our coupons for Epzicom vs. Combivir

Price Card Drug Icon
Abacavir/Lamivudine90 tablets / 600mg/300mg
$108.53$2,921.98
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Price Card Drug Icon
Lamivudine/Zidovudine60 tablets / 150mg/300mg
$43.44-
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