Lamivudine Interactions

FDA Black Box Warning

WARNING: EXACERBATIONS OF HEPATITIS B, and DIFFERENT FORMULATIONS OF LAMIVUDINE Exacerbations of Hepatitis B Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B have been reported in patients who are co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) and have discontinued lamivudine. Hepatic function should be monitored closely with both clinical and laboratory follow-up for at least several months in patients who discontinue lamivudine and are co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV. If appropriate, initiation of anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Important Differences among Lamivudine-Containing Products Lamivudine tablets (used to treat HIV-1 infection) contain a higher dose of the active ingredient (lamivudine) than EPIVIR-HBV tablets and oral solution (used to treat chronic HBV infection). Patients with HIV-1 infection should receive only dosage forms appropriate for treatment of HIV-1 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. WARNING : EXACERBATIONS OF HEPATITIS B, and DIFFERENT FORMULATIONS OF LAMIVUDINE See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B have been reported in patients who are co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) and have discontinued lamivudine. Monitor hepatic function closely in these patients and, if appropriate, initiate anti-hepatitis B treatment. ( 5.1 ) Patients with HIV-1 infection should receive only dosage forms of lamivudin e appropriate for treatment of HIV-1. ( 5.1 )