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Abacavir
Brand Name: Ziagen
What is it?
Abacavir is a medication that is used to treat immunodeficiency virus HIV infection. It is in the category of HIV medications referred to as nucleoside reserve transcriptase inhibitors. Abacavir works by slowing the spread of the HIV infection in the body. It is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, and it does not prevent an individual from spreading the HIV virus to other people. An individual will need to follow their doctor’s instructions with respect to any activities that can put the individual at any continue high risk.
How to take it?
Abacavir will be prescribed by your doctor and should be taken as directed. A dose of Abacavir should be taken with a glass of water. It is available in tablet or liquid solution forms. It should be taken twice a day, and can be taken with or without food. You should try and take it around the same time everyday. This was you keep to your schedule and remember to it. You should continue to take this medication even if you do not feel well. An individual under no circumstance should stop taking this medication without consulting with a doctor.
Warnings and Precautions
They are certain precautions that should be considered when taking Abacavir. You should tell your doctor if you are allergic to this or any other type of medications. You also need to see if you have any kidney conditions, such as kidney disease, before taking this medication. You also need to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant. A woman should not take Abacavir if she is breast-feeding. You should not take this medication with alcohol.
Abacavir is used in combination with other antiviral medications to help prevent HIV, so you need to talk to your doctor about these medications.
You should not drink alcohol while on this medication, it could have serious side effects, and could cause more damage.
If you are taking any nonprescription medication, such as vitamins, supplements, and herbal products, you should also tell your doctor.
What should you do if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose take it immediately once you remember it. If it is close to the time of your next dose, then skip the missed dose and then continue with your regular doses. Never under any circumstance should you double up on your dosage.
What are the side effects?
Abacavir can cause many side effects. You need to contact your doctor if you develop any of the following: upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, tiredness, and difficulty sleeping. These side effects are less serious; others can be more severe and include hypersensitivity reactions, liver damage, bruises in the mouth, muscle and joint pain, headache, pain and a burning sensation in the feet or hands and the swelling of the hands, feet, lower legs or ankles. Abacavir can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals that can possibly lead to death. If you develop any of the severe symptoms you need to contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will be able to run test to see if you are allergic to Abacavir. Your pharmacy will usually provide you with a card listing these symptoms; an individual should carry this card with them at all times, just in case they develop any symptoms. If for some reason you are taken to a hospital, they will know that you are on this medication, and be able to treat you properly.
How to store this medication?
This medication should be kept in the container that it comes in. The cover should be kept tightly closed, and always out of the reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature and not to be close to extreme heat and moisture. The solution can be kept in the refrigerator, but it should not be allowed to freeze.
What does it look like?
Abacavir 300mg is a capsule shaped film-coated yellow tablet. Abacavir liquid is colorless to pale-yellow, strawberry-banana flavored syrup.
What if you overdose?
If you overdose, call poison control and get immediate attention for the individual who seems to have overdosed.
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