Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine - Oral

Abacavir, Lamivudine and Zidovudine are combined in this medicine.

Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection which can lead to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

This medicine is not a cure for HIV infection. It only helps to keep the virus in check and can help improve the quality of life. It does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people.

Take Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Take Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not take Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• very low red blood cell count
• very low white blood cell count
• moderate to severe liver disease

as Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine may not be suitable for you.

Do not take this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Some genetic traits can increase the risk of allergic reactions to this medicine. Individuals who have the genetic variant called HLA-B*57:01 are more likely to develop serious allergic reactions to Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine. Your doctor may need to perform genetic testing before giving this medicine to know if it is suitable for you to take.  If you know you have this gene type, alert your doctor.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• bone marrow depression (a condition in which the blood cells are low)
• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• high fat or lipid levels in the blood
• hepatitis B infection (contagious liver infection caused by a virus that is spread through contact with infected blood or other body fluids)
• hepatitis C infection (contagious liver infection caused by a virus that is spread through exposure to infected blood [blood-to-blood contact])
• mild liver disease
• kidney disease

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.

It is best that you do not breastfeed as HIV passes into the breast milk. Avoid breastfeeding in order to reduce the risk of passing HIV to your baby. It is recommended to give your baby commercial infant formula provided that you have access to clean water and facilities.

Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine is not a cure for HIV. It only helps to slow down the development of HIV infection.

This medicine does not reduce your risk of passing HIV infection to others through sexual contact or contamination with infected blood. Ensure that you use proper precautions to avoid spreading HIV infection to others.

Both this medicine and HIV may weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to infections. Avoid crowded places or those who are sick to minimise the risk of catching an infection. While undergoing treatment, you may develop other infections or experience other health problems. Always keep your doctor updated on your condition and go for your appointed check-ups.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

• Routine tests (e.g. complete blood count, liver and kidney function, cholesterol levels, sugar levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
• Regular monitoring for signs of allergic reactions may also be needed.

Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, diarrhoea, difficulty sleeping, hair loss, and headache.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
• fever, frequent sore throat, fast or irregular heartbeat, cough, muscle pain or cramps, feeling very tired or weak
• chest pain, tightness or pressure, pain that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder or back, lightheadedness
• yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, swelling in the legs and ankles
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• sunken eyes or cheeks, sudden unexplained weight loss

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

• methadone (strong painkiller)
• riociguat (medicine for high blood pressure)
• cladribine (medicine for cancer)
• fluconazole (medicine to treat fungal infection)
• phenytoin (medicine for epilepsy [fits or seizures])
• probenecid (medicine for gout [high uric acid level in the blood])
• rifampicin (medicine to treat TB [an infection known as tuberculosis])
• certain antibiotics e.g. trimethoprim, clarithromycin

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Abacavir + Lamivudine + Zidovudine.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.