3TC is an antiretroviral medication, which is used together with other antiretrovirals (e.g., zidovudine) to delay the
progression of HIV infection. 3TC does not cure AIDS or kill the HIV virus, but helps to prevent further damage by slowing
down production of new viruses. Treatment with 3TC does not reduce the risk of passing infection on to others. You will
still be able to pass HIV by sexual contact or by blood transfer and you should use appropriate precautions.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
In general, the dose of 3TC is 150 mg (one tablet or 3 teaspoonfuls/15 mL oral solution) twice daily. If you have a kidney problem, your dose may be altered.
3TC oral solution contains a small quantity of alcohol, which is unlikely to have any effect. If you are a diabetic, please
note that each adult dose (150 mg = 15 mL) of lamivudine oral solution contains 3 g of sugar. Due to this sugar content,
lamivudine oral solution users should clean their teeth regularly to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of the next dose. Do not
double the dose, just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. Always check to ensure that the drug has not expired before using it, especially if you have missed a dose.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Most side effects reported with 3TC are mild, and may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, rash,
fatigue, a general feeling of being unwell, or a numbness, tingling sensation or sensation of weakness in your limbs. If
these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
Very rarely, 3TC may cause a decrease in certain types of blood counts. The most serious is a fall in the number of
white blood cells. This can increase your risk of developing infections as white blood cells are needed to fight infections.
3TC can also decrease platelets. This can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising as platelets are needed to help your
blood clot. Your red blood cells may also decrease which could make you feel tired or short of breath. Blood tests will be
done regularly to check for any changes in these values. Your blood will also be checked for any changes in liver
function. If there are any problems, the dose of 3TC will be reduced or the drug will be stopped.
Some people may experience allergic reactions to medicines. If you have any of the following symptoms soon after
taking 3TC, STOP taking the drug and tell your doctor IMMEDIATELY: sudden wheeziness and chest pain or tightening,
swelling of eyelids, face or lips, skin rash or "hives" anywhere on the body, very severe stomach cramps, which may be due to a condition called pancreatitis.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Before beginning treatment with 3TC, make sure your doctor knows if
- you had or have a problem with your kidneys;
- you had or have any diseases of the liver, particularly hepatitis B infection;
- you have any other illnesses besides HIV infection;
- you are taking ANY other drugs (including those not prescribed by your doctor); or
- you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breast-feeding a child.
This information will help you and your physician decide if the potential benefits of treating your condition with 3TC will outweigh the possible risks.
How should this medication be STORED?
Store 3TC tablets at room temperature (2-30° C), and 3TC oral solution between 2-25°C. KEEP THIS AND ANY OTHER DRUGS OUT OF SIGHT AND OUT OF REACH FROM CHILDREN. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE AFTER THE EXPIRY
DATE ("EXP") shown on the outside of the package.
Do not store in your bathroom or kitchen as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions
The telephone number is ___________ Please ask for ____________________
