Zidovudine and lamivudine are antiretroviral medications that slow down the replication of the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) and may therefore slow the progression of HIV disease. They do not cure HIV nor do they prevent HIV
transmission. Effects of Combivir may be prolonged if it is used in combination with other effective drugs and the virus is
maximally suppressed. It is important that your progress is assessed regularly.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Combivir is a combination product that includes both zidovudine and lamivudine. Each tablet of Combivir contains 300 mg zidovudine and 150 mg 3TC.
The dosage is one tablet twice daily
. Combivir can be taken with or without food.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of Combivir, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for your next dose, do not double the
dose, just carry on with your regular schedule. It is important to take Combivir on schedule, to assure constant, proper blood levels of the drug
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Most side effects reported are mild and often temporary, and may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, fever, rash, fatigue, a general feeling of being unwell, insomnia, or muscle aches. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
Occasionally, a decrease in certain types of blood counts may occur, such as:
- decrease in red blood cells
. This can make you feel tired or short of breath.
- decrease in white blood cells
. This can increase your risk of developing infections.
- decrease in platelets
. This can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising as platelets are needed to help your blood clot.
These adverse effects usually occur after you have been on the drug for a long period of time. Blood tests will be done
regularly to check for any changes in these values. Inform your physician if you notice any symptoms of fever, chills, shortness of breath, palpitations, or fatigue.
Your blood will also be checked for any changes in liver function. If there are any problems, your medication may need to be adjusted or discontinued.
Some people may experience allergic reactions to medicines. If you have any of the following symptoms soon after
taking Combivir, 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 Combivir, 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.
Other medications may affect the way zidovudine and 3TC work and increase the chance of side effects. Also,
zidovudine and/or 3TC may affect the way other medications work. Therefore, inform your doctor and pharmacist about
all the prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking, and do not start taking other medications without discussing this first.
You should not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor first, even if you begin to feel better. Be
sure to maintain regular medical visits and to inform your doctor of any new medical problems that develop while you are
taking zidovudine, as it is still possible for you to develop infections and other complications.
How should this medication be STORED?
- Combivir should be stored in a cool (15-30C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children.
- 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 _____________________.
