Description
Generic Name:
Lamivudine + Zidovudine
Composition:
Each Duovir Tablet contains:
- Lamivudine (150mg): A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that blocks HIV replication by preventing the virus from multiplying.
- Zidovudine (300mg): Another NRTI that inhibits viral DNA synthesis, reducing the spread of HIV within the body.
Indication:
Duovir Tablet is indicated for:
- HIV-1 Infection Treatment: Used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) to manage HIV infection in adults and children.
- Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT): Helps reduce the risk of transmitting HIV from an HIV-positive mother to her baby during childbirth.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PeP): Sometimes prescribed to individuals exposed to HIV through occupational or non-occupational means.
Storage Instructions:
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place.
- Keep away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
- Store in its original packaging to protect from light.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Uses of the Medicine:
- HIV Treatment: Used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to suppress HIV viral load.
- Prevention of HIV Progression: Helps delay the progression to AIDS by maintaining immune function.
- Prevention of HIV Transmission: Reduces the risk of passing the virus to others when combined with safer practices.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PeP): Can be used for 28 days to prevent HIV infection after possible exposure.
Benefits of the Medicine:
- Effective Viral Load Suppression: Helps reduce HIV levels in the blood.
- Improves Immune Function: Increases CD4 cell count to strengthen the immune system.
- Combination Therapy Advantage: Simplifies treatment by combining two effective drugs.
- Prevents Mother-to-Child Transmission: Significantly lowers the risk of passing HIV to newborns.
Side Effects:
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache or dizziness
- Fatigue or muscle pain
- Mild skin rash or irritation
- Changes in appetite
Serious Side Effects Include:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing).
- Liver toxicity (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain).
- Bone marrow suppression (low red/white blood cell count).
- Lactic acidosis (muscle pain, breathing difficulty, drowsiness).
- Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, persistent nausea, vomiting).
How to Use the Medicine:
- Take one tablet twice daily, or as directed by your doctor.
- Swallow whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- If used for PeP, complete the full 28-day course without missing doses.
- Consistent adherence is crucial for treatment success.
How the Medicine Works:
Duovir Tablet works by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing HIV from replicating and spreading within the body. By reducing viral load, it helps improve immune function and slows the progression of the disease.
What If You Forget to Take the Medicine?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.
Quick Tips:
- Take Duovir Tablet at the same time each day to maintain drug levels in the body.
- Avoid alcohol, which may increase side effects.
- Use condoms and other preventive measures to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
- Get regular blood tests to monitor liver function and blood cell counts.
- Inform your doctor if you are taking other medications to prevent drug interactions.
Safety Advice
Alcohol
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Duovir Tablet. Please consult your doctor for guidance.
Pregnancy
Duovir Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing baby. It may only be prescribed in life-threatening situations where benefits outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.
Breastfeeding
There is insufficient information on the use of Duovir Tablet while breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor before use.
Driving
It is uncertain whether Duovir Tablet affects your ability to drive. Avoid driving if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or reduced alertness.
Kidney
Limited data is available on the safety of Duovir Tablet in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustments may be necessary. Please consult your doctor.
Liver
Duovir Tablet should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustments may be required based on the severity of the condition. Please consult your doctor.
FAQs:
Q: Can Duovir Tablet cure HIV?
A: No, it helps manage the virus but does not cure HIV. Continuous treatment is necessary.
Q: Can pregnant women take Duovir Tablet?
A: Yes, it is often prescribed to pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. However, medical supervision is required.
Q: How long does it take for Duovir Tablet to work?
A: A significant reduction in viral load can be observed within a few weeks of consistent use.
Q: Can Duovir Tablet be taken alone for HIV treatment?
A: No, it must be used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs for effective treatment.
Related Lab Tests:
- HIV Viral Load Test (to monitor treatment effectiveness).
- CD4 Cell Count (to assess immune function).
- Liver and Kidney Function Tests (to monitor potential toxicity).
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) (to check for bone marrow suppression).
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