HIV treatments information
abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine
Trizivir is a triple 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. combination tablet containing 150mg lamivudine (3TC), 300mg abacavir and 300mg zidovudine (AZT).
It is not recommended for initial therapy but is considered beneficial for treatment-experienced people because of improved adherence and short-term tolerance.
Trizivir is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and should only be used when the drug's benefits outweigh its risks. Abacavir can cause a severe hypersensitivity reaction.
About this treatment
| Generic name: | abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine |
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| Pronunciation: | TRY-zih-veer |
| Brand name: | Trizivir |
| Also known as: | AZT/3TC/abacavir |
| Drug class: | triple NRTI |
| Availability in Australia: |
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| Presentation: | 300mg/150mg/300mg tablet |
| What the treatment guidelines say: | The ASHM Australian HIV Treatment Guidelines note that any medication containing abacavir can cause a potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction. Symptoms of hypersensitivity may include fever, rash, nausea, vomiting, malaise or fatigue, loss of appetite, and/or respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, cough, shortness of breath. Abacavir may also cause a rare but potentially life-threatening toxicity called lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis. |
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Taking it
Like all anti-HIV drugs, abacavir + 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 (300mg/300mg/150mg) tablet twice a day.
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.
With or without food?
Abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine may be taken with or without food.
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, depression, dizziness, abdominal pain, constipation, muscle aches.
- Less common side effects may include rash, blood disorders, muscle damage, neutropenia, hair loss.
- Rare side effects may include serious hypersensitivity reaction which may be life-threatening, lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis.
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.
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| gwctrivz20908.pdf | 47.01 KB |