abacavir / lamivudine
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.
What is Epzicom?
What is Epzicom used for?
HIV treatment
How Epzicom works
Epzicom contains two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). They insert themselves into the virus' DNA and stop the DNA-making process. When this happens, the HIV virus can't make copies of itself.
Drug Facts
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What are the side effects of Epzicom?
Common Side Effects
- Headache (7%)
- Tiredness and fatigue (6%)
- Dizziness (6%)
- Nausea (5%)
- Diarrhea (5%)
- Rash (5%)
- Fever (5%)
Other Side Effects
- Stomach pain
- Anxiety
Serious Side Effects
- Fever
- Rash
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
- Tiredness, achiness, feeling ill
- Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat
Source: DailyMed
Pros and cons of 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
Pharmacist tips for Epzicom
Try to take your tablet at the same time every day. This will help keep the amount of medication in your body consistent.
Your medication will come with a warning card that lists all the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Make sure you read this card before you take Epzicom so you know if you are having a reaction. Carry the card with you while you are taking Epzicom.
If you have an allergic reaction to Epzicom, get rid of any remaining tablets. You should never take it again. Make sure you let your provider and pharmacist know your allergies so they put it in your medical record.
Don't stop taking Epzicom without talking to your healthcare provider first, especially if you have hepatitis B.
If you forget to take Epzicom, or run out of medication for more than a few days, talk to your healthcare provider before starting it again.
Frequently asked questions about Epzicom
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What are the risks and warnings for Epzicom?
Epzicom can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION
Risk factors: Positive genetic test (HLA B5701)
Life-threatening allergic reactions to have happened to people taking Epzicom. This usually happens in the first 6 weeks after starting the medication. Your healthcare provider will do a genetic test before you start the medication to review your risk of having a reaction. If the test is positive, or you have a history of an allergic reaction to Epzicom you should never take Epzicom. Stop taking Epzicom and seek medical help right away if you have symptoms from 2 or more of the following groups.
WORSENING OF HEPATITIS B
Risk factors: Hepatitis B virus | Stopping Epzicom
People who have stopped taking Epzicom have had severe worsening of their hepatitis B. Don't stop taking Epzicom unless instructed by your healthcare provider. If you are instructed to stop the medication or switch to a different antiviral medication, make sure you get your labs drawn regularly. This is how your provider will monitor your liver and HBV.
LIVER PROBLEMS
Risk factors: Obesity | Women | History of liver problems
Although rare, NRTIs including Epzicom can cause a life-threatening liver problem called lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis. Most of the cases have been in women. Symptoms include appetite loss, stomach pain, muscle pain, fast and shallow breathing, extreme tiredness, and sudden weakness. Stop taking Epzicom and go to the emergency room right away if this happens.
IMMUNE RECONSTITUTION SYNDROME
Risk factors: Weakened immune system | Current untreated infection
HIV attacks your immune system. Over time, if the virus isn't treated your body may become defenseless against bacterial and fungal infections. Your HIV medications are very good at killing the virus, and when the number of viruses goes down, your immune system gets started making more cells. Once your immune system gets better, it will start to fight off any infections you might have, which can lead to a lot of inflammation. Even though it's a good thing that your immune system is getting better, too much inflammation can be bad. Your healthcare provider might check for underlying infections (sometimes called opportunistic infections) before starting Epzicom especially if it is your first time taking HIV medications. Call your provider if you experience fever, difficulty breathing, or sudden changes to your health after starting Epzicom.
HEART ATTACK
Risk factors: High blood pressure | High cholesterol | Diabetes
People taking Epzicom might be at a higher risk for having a heart attack, especially if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Talk to your HIV provider about all the medications you are taking and let them know if you have a history of heart problems.
Epzicom dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 600mg/300mg | 90 tablets | $3838.12 | $42.65 |
Typical dosing for Epzicom
The recommended dose is 1 tablet once daily. Each tablet contains 600 mg of abacavir and 300 mg of lamivudine.
How much does Epzicom cost?
What are alternatives to Epzicom?
Treatment of HIV infection
Prevention of HIV infection (PrEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis)
What is the latest news about Epzicom?
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