Combivir

Common Name: lamivudine - zidovudine

How does Combivir work?

Lamivudine and zidovudine are used in combination to treat the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine and zidovudine belong to a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Reverse transcriptase is a part of HIV required to infect cells and make more virus. Lamivudine and zidovudine prevent reverse transcriptase from working properly. These medications do not cure AIDS and do not prevent it from being spread to others, but they do help to slow down the progression of the disease. This may help to delay the development of problems related to AIDS or HIV disease.

How should I use Combivir?

The recommended dose for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older is one tablet (containing 150 mg of lamivudine and 300 mg of zidovudine) twice daily. For adults weighing less than 50 kg, children below 12 years of age, and people with reduced kidney function, it is recommended that lamivudine and zidovudine be taken separately so that doses can be adjusted as needed. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed. The effectiveness of the medicine depends on there being the right amount of lamivudine and zidovudine in the bloodstream. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses. If you forget many doses in a row, talk to your doctor about how to resume dosing. Do not stop taking this medication without telling your doctor.

What form(s) does Combivir come in?

This drug is supplied as a white to off-white capsule-shaped film-coated tablet containing lamivudine 150 mg and zidovudine 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients in the tablet include silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate, sodium starch glycolate, and titanium dioxide. The tablets contain no gluten, lactose, or yeast.

What should I NOT take with Combivir?

This medication should not be taken by anyone with history of significant sensitivity or allergic reactions to any of its ingredients.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Combivir?

Pregnancy: Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breast-feeding: Talk to your doctor if you are breast-feeding or considering breast-feeding. Medical conditions: Make sure you tell your doctor if you have a history of any of the following conditions: anemia liver disease kidney disease low amounts of folic acid or vitamin B12 in the blood