Tablets, oral solution
To treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in combination with other drugs. While not a cure for HIV, such drugs may suppress the replication of the virus and delay the progression of the disease.
Abacavir prevents HIV from reproducing in two ways. A metabolite of the drug inhibits the activity of an enzyme needed for the replication of DNA in viral cells. The metabolite is also incorporated into viral DNA and terminates the formation of the complete DNA.
Adults: To start, 300 mg 2 times a day. The drug must be taken in combination with other drugs for HIV to delay the development of resistant strains of the virus. Children three months to 16 years: 8 mg per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight 2 times a day in combination with other drugs for HIV. Children should take no more than 300 mg twice a day.
Unknown. With most antiretroviral drugs, an early response can be seen within the first few days of therapy, but the maximum effect may take 12 to 16 weeks.
Unknown. Effects of the drug may be prolonged when abacavir is used in combination with other effective drugs and the virus is maximally suppressed.
Abacavir can be taken with or without food.
Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct light. The oral solution may be refrigerated, but should not be allowed to freeze.
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosage schedule. Do not double the next dose. It is especially important to take abacavir on schedule, to assure constant, proper blood levels of the drug.
The decision to stop taking the drug should be made in consultation with your physician.
See your doctor regularly for tests and examinations.
It is not known whether abacavir causes different or more severe side effects in older patients.
Do not drive or engage in hazardous work until you determine how the medicine affects you.
Alcohol may raise the blood concentration of the drug.
Abacavir has been shown to cause birth defects in animals. Human studies have not been done. This medication should be given during pregnancy only if potential benefits outweigh the risks to the unborn child.
Women infected with HIV should not breast feed, to avoid transmitting the virus to an uninfected child.
Your pediatrician will determine the appropriate dosage based on your child's weight. Call your doctor immediately if you notice a rash or any other side effects while your child is taking abacavir. The drug has not been tested on infants less than three months of age.
Use of abacavir does not eliminate the risk of passing the AIDS virus to other persons. You should take appropriate preventive measures.
No cases of overdose have been reported.
If you suspect an overdose or if someone takes a much larger dose than prescribed, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately.
Currently, there are no clinically significant drug interactions. Further studies are being conducted.
No known food interactions.
Currently, there are no clinically significant disease interactions. Further studies are being conducted.