Kivexa

Uses of Kivexa

KIVEXA tablets are a combination of two nucleoside analogues (abacavir and lamivudine). KIVEXA is indicated in antiretroviral combination therapy for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection in adults and adolescents from 12 years of age.

Precautions and Warnings

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Do not take abacavir – lamivudine if you:

• are allergic to abacavir, lamivudine, or any ingredients of the medication
• have had a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir or any medication containing abacavir
• have reduced liver function
• have a genetic variation known as HLA-B*5701

If you stop taking this medication, your HIV infection could get worse. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and do not stop taking the medication without checking with your doctor first.

This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Lamivudine and abacavir pass into breast milk. Women who have HIV infection are cautioned against breast-feeding because of the risk of passing HIV to a baby who does not have the infection.

This medication may be used by children less than 18 years of age who weigh more than 25 kg. Although both abacavir and lamivudine have been used to treat HIV for children, the doses of the ingredients in this medication cannot be adjusted and may not be appropriate for people who weigh less than 25 kg.

People over the age of 65 years may be more at risk of side effects from this medication.

Dosage

The usual recommended dose of abacavir – lamivudine for adults and children who weigh more than 25 kg, is one tablet (600 mg of abacavir and 300 mg of lamivudine) once daily.

This medication may be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Side Effects:

Common side effects:

• diarrhea
• fatigue
• fever
• hair loss
• headache
• joint and muscle pain
• lack of energy
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• skin rash
• trouble sleeping
• upper abdominal pain
• vomiting