What is Lamivudine Tablets ?
Lamivudine is a medication used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It is also sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat chronic hepatitis B. Lamivudine belongs to a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It works by slowing down the growth and replication of the virus in the body.
Lamivudine Tablets Use
- HIV Infection: Lamivudine is often used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to manage HIV infection. It helps to slow down the progression of the virus and improve the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.
- Chronic Hepatitis B: Lamivudine is also used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B, which is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It helps to lower the amount of HBV in the body and may improve liver function.
Lamivudine Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Inhibition of Reverse Transcriptase: Lamivudine works by inhibiting the action of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. Reverse transcriptase is crucial for the replication of HIV and hepatitis B viruses.
- Nucleoside Analogue: Lamivudine is a nucleoside analogue. This means it is structurally similar to the building blocks of DNA and RNA (nucleosides), but it lacks the 3′-hydroxyl group needed to form the next phosphodiester bond in the growing DNA chain. When incorporated into the viral DNA chain, it terminates further extension.
- Chain Termination: When the virus tries to replicate its genetic material, Lamivudine gets incorporated into the growing viral DNA chain. Once incorporated, it acts as a “chain terminator,” preventing the addition of further nucleotides and halting the replication process.
Lamivudine Tablets – Side-effects
- Nausea or vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting, especially when they first start taking the medication. Taking lamivudine with food can help reduce these symptoms.
- Headache: Headaches can occur, but they are usually mild and temporary.
- Fatigue: Some people may feel tired or have a general sense of fatigue.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea can occur, particularly when starting lamivudine. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding high-fiber or greasy foods may help alleviate this symptom.
- Insomnia: Some people may experience difficulty sleeping.
