HIV treatments information
lamivudine + zidovudine
Combivir was the first approved combination tablet and consists of both lamivudine (3TC) 150mg and zidovudine (AZT) 300mg.
Combivir is not recommended for first-line therapy however zidovudine/lamivudine remains as the preferred option in pregnant women. This dual-NRTIA type of anti-HIV drug that works by inhibiting a stage of the HIV life cycle called reverse transcription. Non-nucleosides work in a similar way, but are chemically different. has the most safety and efficacy(Of a drug or treatment). The maximum ability of a drug or treatment to produce a result regardless of dosage. A drug passes efficacy trials if it is effective at the dose tested and against the illness for which it is prescribed. In the standard procedure, Phase II clinical trials gauge efficacy, and Phase III trials confirm it. data for both mother and newborn.
Combivir has been shown in multiple clinical trials to be a potent regimen with either a protease inhibitorA type of anti-HIV drug that works by preventing the production of an enzyme, protease, that HIV needs to replicate. or an NNRTI.
About this treatment
| Generic name: | lamivudine + zidovudine |
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| Pronunciation: | COM-bih-veer |
| Brand name: | Combivir |
| Drug class: | double NRTI |
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| Presentation: | 150 mg/300 mg tablet |
| What the treatment guidelines say: | The key reasons for the demotion of zidovudine to second line antiretroviral therapy are concerns re immediate (nausea and headache), medium term (anaemia) and long term (lipoatrophy) toxicity; inconvenience of twice daily dosing and the availability of other apparently less toxic and more convenient options. |
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Taking it
Like all anti-HIV drugs, lamivudine + zidovudine must be taken in combination with other drugs to be completely effective. Your doctor will advise you on the right combination of drugs to suit your circumstances.
Dosage
The normal adult dose is one 150mg/300mg tablet twice a day. The tablets should be swallowed with a drink of water.
Regardless of what you read on this website or elsewhere, you should always take your medications according to your doctor's instructions. If you're unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Side effects
All drugs can produce side effects in some people. These may be mild, moderate or severe, so you should be aware of potential side effects before starting any drug, and speak to your doctor if you experience side effects that concern you.
- Common side effects may include nausea (upset stomach, feeling sick to the stomach), diarrhoea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, dizziness, muscle pain, lipodystrophy, peripheral neuropathy, insomnia.
- Less common side effects may include rash, blood disorders, muscle damage, neutropenia, hair loss, anaemia.
It's unlikely you will experience all of these side effects, and you may not experience any side effects at all. Before starting any new drug, ask your doctor about side effects you might experience and discuss strategies for dealing with side effects if they do occur. If you experience any significant side effect you should continue taking your medicine and see your doctor as soon as possible.