Drug
Lamivudine
Pronounced
"la-MIV-ue-deen"
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, tiredness, or infections of the ear/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Rarely, lamivudine-HBV has caused severe (sometimes fatal) liver problems and a buildup of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis). These serious side effects may occur more often in women and obese patients. Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: symptoms of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), symptoms of lactic acidosis (such as deep/rapid breathing, drowsiness, nausea/vomiting).
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes, muscle/joint pain, tingling/numbness in hands or feet.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking lamivudine-HBV, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using lamivudine-HBV, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: pancreatitis, HIV infection, kidney disease, blood disorders, liver disease.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Liquid preparations of lamivudine-HBV contain sugar (sucrose). If you are a diabetic using the liquid form of this drug, closer monitoring of your blood sugar is recommended as you begin using this drug. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the increased risk of pancreatitis.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication has not been shown to prevent the passing of hepatitis B from the mother to the newborn. Consult your doctor for more information.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.