abacavir/lamivudine-oral (cont.)
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Carry the "Warning Card" with you at all times. Take this and other anti-HIV medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Do not skip any doses. Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or stop taking it (or other HIV medicines), even for a short time, unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the amount of virus to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat, and worsen side effects.
SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section. Headache, dizziness, unusual dreams or trouble sleeping may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, increased thirst, increased urination, change in amount of urine, seizures. This medication may cause changes in your body fat (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of therapy, and how exercise might reduce this side effect, with your doctor. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, extreme tiredness, achiness, stomach pain, swelling, trouble breathing, cough, sore throat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking abacavir/lamivudine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you think you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: moderate or severe kidney disease, liver disease. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: alcohol dependence, hepatitis B infection, kidney disease, pancreatic disorders, diabetes, obesity. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. If you must stop using this drug due to an allergic reaction, never use the drug again or death could result. Consult your doctor and read the "Warning Card" for more details. It is important that you do not run out of this medication. If you stop using abacavir even for a short time (e.g., forget to order a refill) and then start it again, the chance of developing a very serious (possibly fatal) allergic reaction can increase. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting abacavir again. You should also have easy access to medical care if you restart treatment. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Lamivudine passes into breast milk. Do not breast-feed because HIV can be passed through breast milk.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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