Combivir (Lamivudine / Zidovudine)

Information about Combivir (Lamivudine / Zidovudine)

Combivir is a combination medication used in the treatment of HIV infection. It combines two antiretroviral drugs, lamivudine and zidovudine, in one pill to help control the viral load in the body and manage HIV effectively. By using a combination of medications, it helps to reduce the likelihood of drug resistance and can be more effective than single-drug treatments.

Product Highlights

• Used as part of a combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients.
• While not a cure, Combivir helps in reducing the viral load in the body and slowing the progression of HIV.

Key Ingredient

• Lamivudine
• Zidovudine

Key Benefits

• Helps to lower HIV viral load in the bloodstream.
• Combining two medications helps reduce the risk of the virus developing resistance to treatment.
• Combining lamivudine and zidovudine into a single pill simplifies the treatment regimen.

Direction of Use

• Typically, the recommended dose is one tablet taken orally twice daily, with or without food.
• For optimal effectiveness, take the medication precisely as directed. Avoid missing doses and do not discontinue the medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Safety Concerns

• Nausea, headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.
• Bone marrow suppression (which can lead to anemia or low blood cell counts), lactic acidosis, liver problems, and pancreatitis.
• Periodic blood tests may be required to monitor liver function and blood cell counts.

Avoid Combivir (Lamivudine / Zidovudine) If

• You are allergic to lamivudine, zidovudine, or any other component of the medication.
• You have severe kidney or liver impairment, as Combivir may not be safe or effective in such cases.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Zidovudine is sometimes used in pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, but the benefits and risks should be carefully evaluated.