Lamivudine – Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI)

Lamivudine is an antiretroviral and antiviral agent belonging to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class. Lamivudine is a synthetic analog of cytidine. Its mechanism of action involves the competitive inhibition of the reverse transcriptase of HIV-1 and HIV-2, as well as the DNA polymerase of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Following intracellular phosphorylation to its active triphosphate form, lamivudine incorporates into the viral DNA chain, resulting in chain termination and premature cessation of viral genome synthesis. The drug exhibits potent antiviral activity and high selectivity for viral enzymes, having minimal impact on DNA replication processes in human cells.

The pharmacokinetic profile of lamivudine is characterized by rapid and nearly complete absorption following oral administration. Bioavailability in adults is approximately 80–87%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in approximately 1 hour. Lamivudine has low plasma protein binding and penetrates well into the cerebrospinal fluid. Metabolism in the human body is minimal; it is excreted primarily unchanged in the urine via active tubular secretion. The elimination half-life is 5 to 7 hours. In patients with renal impairment, elimination is prolonged, necessitating dosage adjustments.

The drug is administered orally irrespective of food intake. In HIV therapy, lamivudine is always utilized as part of a combination antiretroviral regimen to prevent the development of resistance. In chronic hepatitis B, the drug is used to suppress viral replication and reduce inflammation in liver tissue.

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Lamivudine

Indications

Lamivudine is indicated for use within combination therapeutic regimens for the following viral diseases:

  • HIV infection: treatment of HIV-infected adults and children (as part of a combination antiretroviral regimen).
  • Chronic Hepatitis B: treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adults and children with evidence of active viral replication, elevated serum aminotransferase levels, and histological verification of active inflammatory disease or fibrosis.

Dosage and administration

The dosing regimen of lamivudine depends on the diagnosis, patient age, and renal function.

  • HIV infection: the recommended dose for adults is 300 mg daily (administered once daily or 150 mg twice daily).
  • Chronic Hepatitis B: the recommended dose for adults is 100 mg once daily.
  • Administration Method: tablets must be swallowed with water. Administration is possible irrespective of meal times.
  • Renal Impairment Adjustment: since lamivudine is renally excreted, decreased creatinine clearance requires dose reduction or extended intervals between doses under strict medical supervision.

The use of lamivudine is contraindicated in the following states:

  • Hypersensitivity: documented allergic reaction to lamivudine or any excipients contained within the formulation.
  • Severe Renal Impairment: standard dosages are not applicable in end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis.
  • Lactation: breastfeeding is not recommended for women receiving lamivudine treatment, as the drug is excreted in human milk, and the risk of HIV transmission or impact on the infant in HBV cases requires individual assessment.

Side effects of lamivudine are generally well-tolerated; however, the following reactions may occur:

  • General Symptoms: headache, fatigue, malaise, and fever are frequently reported.
  • Gastrointestinal Disturbances: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and upper abdominal pain.
  • Metabolic and Muscular Disorders: potential elevations in amylase and lipase levels, arthralgia, myalgia, and rare cases of lactic acidosis (typically in combination with other NRTIs).
  • Dermatological Reactions: skin rash and pruritus.
  • Laboratory Parameters: potential changes in complete blood counts (neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia) and transient elevations in liver enzymes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lamivudine is an antiviral medication belonging to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It stops viruses from multiplying by incorporating itself into their DNA. It is used to treat chronic hepatitis B and, in combination with other medicines, to manage HIV infection.
This is a key distinction. The 100 mg dose (e.g., Zeffix generics) is typically used specifically for chronic hepatitis B. The 150 mg and 300 mg doses (e.g., Epivir or Heptavir) are used in HIV treatment regimens. Unifarm offers both forms from leading Indian manufacturers.
Indian companies (such as Cipla, Hetero, Natco) manufacture lamivudine according to international GMP quality standards. The generics available on Unifarm are identical to the original drugs in terms of efficacy and safety but significantly reduce the cost of long-term (often lifelong) therapy.
The medication is taken orally, with or without food. It is crucial to follow the schedule and not miss doses, as skipping can lead to the virus developing resistance to the drug. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water.
Lamivudine is generally well-tolerated. Potential side effects include headache, nausea, fatigue, or diarrhea. In rare cases, it can affect the pancreas or cause lactic acidosis, so treatment must be conducted under regular medical supervision.
We offer lamivudine in various dosages at the most affordable prices in Ukraine. The cost depends on the brand and the number of tablets per pack. You can compare prices from different manufacturers in our catalog or ask our consultant for help.
To order, select the medication on the Unifarm website and complete the application. We deliver orders via postal services throughout Ukraine. We guarantee the authenticity of all medications and their compliance with the specified characteristics.

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Lamivudine + Dolutegravir + Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate
50 мг / 300 мг / 300 мг 30 tablets
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