Abacavir Sulphate
Description
Generic Name: abacavir sulfate
Drug Class: nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)
Ziagen Uses
Ziagen is an oral prescription drug used to treat HIV-1 infection with other antiretroviral agents. It lowers the chance of developing HIV complications, such as cancer and infections. However, the drug does not lower the risk of spreading HIV. You must use an effective barrier method when doing sexual activity.
Ziagen Dosage Forms
This is available in Ziagen 300 mg tablets.
Ziagen Mechanism of Action
It works by decreasing the amount or level of human immunodeficiency virus in the body by interfering with reverse transcriptase. Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme that the virus utilizes to form a new DNA. This medication cannot kill an existing virus but can prevent the virus from multiplying.
How to Take Ziagen
Before you start taking Ziagen, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
Ziagen tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth with or without a meal. It is usually prescribed once or twice a day or as prescribed by the physician. Swallow the oral tablet and drink fluids right after.
Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your dosing of abacavir, for it is based on weight, medical condition, and how you respond to your medications. You should also never take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
Ziagen Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Nausea
-Fatigue
-Trouble sleeping
-Strange dreams
-Loss of appetite
Severe Side Effects:
-Severe tiredness
-Unexplained weight loss
-Persistent muscle weakness
-Joint pain
-Persistent headache
-Numbness or tingling
-Fever
-Chills
-Trouble breathing
-Irritability
-Nervousness
-Heat intolerance
-Guillain-Barre syndrome
-Vision changes
-Mental or mood changes
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Severe abdominal pain
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Ziagen.
In the event of severe or persistent side effects, stop taking your medication and contact your doctor or healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions when using Ziagen
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to abacavir or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Watch for hives/itchiness, swollen lymph nodes, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or neck, severe dizziness, and skin rashes that might indicate an allergic reaction. When this happens, stop using the medication as soon as possible and seek emergency medical help.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of alcohol abuse, kidney disease, and liver disease. Additionally, you should discuss all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking due to possible drug interactions.
Taking Ziagen can possibly increase the risk of some conditions, like heart attack, hyperthyroidism, lactic acidosis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you observe any untoward reactions from this medication.
Discuss the possible risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant. Pregnant moms are most likely to be prescribed with this medication to decrease the chance of transmitting HIV to the unborn baby.
Moms should not breastfeed as HIV can pass into breastmilk.
How much does Ziagen cost in Canada?
You may see the list of prices on this page. Get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from PharmaPassport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Ziagen used for?
Ziagen (abacavir) is an HIV-1 medication used to treat HIV infection. This is the virus that is responsible for developing acquired immune Deficiency Syndrome, also known as AIDS.
When is the best time to take Ziagen?
There is no specific/recommended time to administer this oral drug. You may take it any time of the day, just as long as you administer it at the same time each day.
Can Ziagen cure HIV?
This drug cannot cure HIV infection but is used to manage and control it. At present, there’s no known cure for HIV.
Can Ziagen cause immunosuppression?
This oral drug does not cause immunosuppression. In contrast, its benefits are improving one’s immune response to infections.
Can I buy Ziagen over the counter?
This product is a prescription drug. This product must be purchased from a pharmacy with a valid prescription.