What is Lamivudine & Zidovudine Tablets?
- Lamivudine: This is a type of medication called a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is necessary for the HIV virus to replicate itself. By interfering with this process, Lamivudine helps to slow down the progression of the HIV infection.
- Zidovudine (also known as AZT): Like Lamivudine, Zidovudine is also an NRTI. It was one of the first medications approved for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Zidovudine works by incorporating itself into the viral DNA, preventing further replication of the virus.
Lamivudine & Zidovudine Tablets Use
- The combination of lamivudine and zidovudine is often prescribed together in a single tablet. This is because using multiple antiretroviral drugs with different mechanisms of action can be more effective in controlling the virus and reducing the likelihood of developing drug-resistant strains.
- The combination of lamivudine and zidovudine has been used in various antiretroviral regimens, and the dosage and frequency of administration may vary based on specific treatment plans and individual patient factors.
Lamivudine & Zidovudine Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Lamivudine (3TC):
Mechanism of Action:
- Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by inhibiting the activity of the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is necessary for the replication of the HIV virus.
- The reverse transcriptase enzyme is responsible for converting the viral RNA genome into DNA, which can then be integrated into the host cell’s genetic material. By inhibiting this process, lamivudine prevents the formation of new HIV DNA, effectively slowing down the replication of the virus.
Zidovudine (AZT):
Mechanism of Action:
- Like lamivudine, zidovudine is also a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It inhibits the activity of the reverse transcriptase enzyme.
- By incorporating itself into the growing DNA chain during viral replication, zidovudine causes premature termination of the chain, preventing the synthesis of complete viral DNA strands.
Lamivudine & Zidovudine Tablets- Side-effects
- Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and may occasionally vomit when taking these medications. Taking them with food may help alleviate this.
- Headache: Headaches can occur, but they are usually mild and transient.
- Fatigue or weakness: Some individuals may feel more tired or have a reduced energy level.
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances: Some people may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
