Lamivudine: Antiviral Therapy for HIV and Chronic Hepatitis B

Lamivudine is a potent nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) with high antiviral activity. It is a fundamental component in the management of HIV-1 infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV).

By mimicking natural DNA building blocks, Lamivudine inhibits the viral reverse transcriptase enzyme, effectively terminating the DNA chain and stopping the virus from replicating. This leads to a significant decrease in viral load and clinical improvement.

While used as a stand-alone treatment for HBV in some cases, it must always be used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for HIV to prevent the development of viral resistance.

Wikipedia page
Lamivudine

Indications

  • HIV-1 Infection: Treatment of HIV-infected adults and children as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • Chronic Hepatitis B: Treatment of chronic HBV in patients with evidence of viral replication and active liver inflammation.
  • Prevention of mother-to-child transmission and post-exposure prophylaxis.

Dosage and administration

The dosage depends on the indication and the patient's renal function. Available in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg tablets.

  • For HIV: The standard adult dose is 300 mg daily, taken either as 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily.
  • For Hepatitis B: The standard adult dose is 100 mg orally once daily.
  • Administration: Can be taken with or without food. Tablets should ideally be swallowed whole.
  • Note: Dose adjustment is required for patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min).
  • Hypersensitivity to Lamivudine or any of the inactive ingredients.
  • Severe renal impairment (if appropriate dose reduction is not possible).
  • Use in pregnancy (especially first trimester) should be carefully balanced against potential risks.

Lamivudine is generally well-tolerated. Potential side effects include:

  • Common: Headache, malaise, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea.
  • Serious: Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis (rare but life-threatening).
  • Warning: Abrupt discontinuation in patients with chronic HBV may lead to severe exacerbation of hepatitis. Liver function should be monitored closely for several months after stopping the drug.

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.

List of medicines by active substance Lamivudine

-5%
Viropil 50 мг / 300 мг / 300 мг Emcure
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Emcure

Viropil

Lamivudine + Dolutegravir + Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate
50 мг / 300 мг / 300 мг 30 tablets
2500₴ 2631₴
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