Baraclude

Baraclude (entecavir) is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults and children aged 2 years and older. It works by inhibiting the replication of HBV, helping to reduce liver inflammation, lower viral load, and prevent liver damage such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Benefits

• Effectively suppresses hepatitis B virus replication
• Helps improve liver function and reduce liver inflammation
• Reduces the risk of complications like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
• Well-tolerated with a low risk of resistance when used properly
• Available in tablet and oral solution formulations

Dosage

• Adults (treatment-naive or lamivudine-resistant):
  • Treatment-naive: 0.5 mg once daily
  • Lamivudine-resistant: 1 mg once daily
• Children (≥2 years, ≥10 kg): Dose based on weight (oral solution or tablets)
• Should be taken on an empty stomach (at least 2 hours before or after a meal)
• Dose adjustment required for patients with renal impairment

Warnings and Precautions

• May cause lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis—monitor closely
• Risk of exacerbation of hepatitis B after stopping treatment—discontinue only under medical supervision
• Use with caution in patients with kidney disease—dose adjustment may be necessary
• Long-term use may lead to resistance in some patients, particularly with prior antiviral exposure
• Safety during pregnancy not fully established—use only if benefits outweigh risks

Usage Instructions

• Take at the same time each day on an empty stomach
• Do not skip doses—adherence is critical to prevent viral resistance
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next dose
• Do not stop treatment without medical advice
• Continue regular blood tests to monitor liver enzymes and HBV DNA levels

Storage Information

• Store tablets and oral solution at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Use oral solution within the expiration date provided
• Keep out of reach of children

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Elevated liver enzymes may occur in some patients
• More serious side effects include lactic acidosis, liver enlargement, and post-treatment flare of hepatitis