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Compare Epzicom vs. Triumeq

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

Key takeaways

Epzicom (abacavir/lamivudine) and Triumeq (abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine) are both used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Epzicom combines two antiretrovirals (abacavir and lamivudine), while Triumeq includes an additional third antiretroviral, dolutegravir. This makes Triumeq a complete single-tablet regimen for HIV treatment, whereas Epzicom needs to be taken with other HIV medications. Triumeq is available in both tablet form and as a dissolvable tablet for children, while Epzicom is only available as a tablet for adults. Both medications require a genetic test before starting to check for a risk of severe allergic reactions. Epzicom is available as a generic, which can be more affordable, while Triumeq does not have a generic form. Additionally, Triumeq has more interactions with other medications and may be less prefered during pregnancy.

  • Epzicom
    Triumeq
  • Epzicom
    Triumeq

  • Summary of Epzicom vs. Triumeq

    Summary for HIV ARV Combo
    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.

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.

  • Indications of Epzicom vs. Triumeq

    Indications for
    •HIV treatment
    Indications for
    •Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 22 pounds)

  • Pros and Cons of Epzicom vs. Triumeq

    Pros and Const for HIV ARV Combo
    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
    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day for complete HIV treatment
    •Combines three medications into one pill for convenience
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Available for adults and children at or over 22 lbs
    Cons
    •Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
    •Not safe to use in severe liver problems
    •Requires a genetic test before starting
    •Interacts with a lot of medications such as St. John’s wort and oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)

  • Common Side Effects of Epzicom vs. Triumeq

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (7%)
    •Tiredness and fatigue (6%)
    •Dizziness (6%)
    •Nausea (5%)
    •Diarrhea (5%)
    •Rash (5%)
    •Fever (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Higher lipase levels (suggesting irritated pancreas) (up to 11%)
    •Higher blood sugar levels (up to 9%)
    •Higher creatine kinase levels in the blood (suggesting muscle damage) (up to 7%)
    •Higher fat levels in the blood (up to 6%)
    •Higher white blood cell count (up to 4%)
    •Abnormal liver labs (up to 3%)
    •Trouble sleeping (3%)
    •Headache (2%)
    •Feeling tired (2%)

    Please note: The side effects listed above are from clinical trials with Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Epzicom (abacavir / lamivudine), which are all active ingredients in Triumeq and Triumeq PD

  • Warnings of Epzicom vs. Triumeq

    Common Side Effects for
    •SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION
    •WORSENING OF HEPATITIS B
    •LIVER PROBLEMS
    •IMMUNE RECONSTITUTION SYNDROME
    •HEART ATTACK
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious allergic reaction
    •Worsening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
    •Liver problems
    •Overactive immune system
    •Interaction with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Epzicom vs. Triumeq

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    Learn more about Triumeq

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