Duovir Tablet is a combination drug containing the active constituents Lamivudine and Zidovudine. It is used to treat HIV–1 infection along with other medicines. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) targets and kills immune system cells; as a result, the body's capacity to fight off infections declines and, in severe cases, results in death.
Patients with neutropenia (low white blood cells) or anemia (low red blood cells) should not use zidovudine or lamivudine. If you have any liver illness, including hepatitis B or C, kidney disease, or are overweight, let your doctor know. Fat loss in the face, arms, and legs is a common side effect of this medication; treatment should be stopped if these symptoms appear. Never let anyone else use your toothbrush or other personal items, such as your razor. Ask your doctor about appropriate sexual behavior.
The kidneys are the main organs via which Duovir Tablet is removed from the body. If you have impaired kidney function, your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage to prevent potential side effects. It is important to keep an eye on kidney function regularly during treatment. This medication can be prescribed to children with HIV, but the dosages and formulations may differ.
Uses of Duovir TabletTreatment of HIV–1 infection Therapeutic Effects of Duovir Tablet
Duovir Tablet work by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme that is essential for the replication of HIV. By inhibiting viral replication, these medications help reduce the viral load in the body, slow the progression of HIV infection, preserve immune function, and decrease the risk of developing AIDS-related complications. Interaction of Duovir Tablet with other drugsInform your healthcare provider about all your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Duovir Tablet, reducing effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.More Information about Duovir Tablet Store at temprature 20-25°C (68-77°F).Keep away from moisture, heat, and light.It should not be frozen.Keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be used.Keep out of the reach of children and pets.How to consume Duovir TabletDuovir Tablet capsules or tablets is taken orally. The medication is usually taken once a day, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole without crushing or chewing it.Safety Advices for Duovir Tablet
Pregnancy
Duovir tablets are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it is always important to consult a healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
Duovir Tablet is considered safe while breastfeeding.
Lungs
If you have a pre-existing lung condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, it is important to consult your healthcare provider.
Liver
People with pre-existing liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, should consult a doctor before taking Duovir Tablet.
Alcohol
Alcohol can interact with Duovir Tablet in various ways, including increasing the risk of side effects, decreasing the effectiveness of the medication, or causing other harmful interactions
Driving
Patients should always monitor their response to the Duovir Tablet medication and be cautious when driving or operating machinery if they experience any side effects that may impair their ability to do so safely.
Side Effects of Duovir TabletDuovir Tablet cause side effects like all medications, although not everyone will experience them. Serious:
- Allergic reactions (hives, itching, inflammation of the face, lips, tongue)
- Lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the body)
- Hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity)
- Anemia (low levels of red blood cells)
- Neutropenia (low levels of white blood cells)
- Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting)
Common:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Rash or skin reactions
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Joint pain
Word of AdviceDuovir Tablet should not be used without consulting a healthcare provider. You should tell the healthcare provider if someone experiences unusual side effects while using this medicine. Inform the doctor if you have any prior liver disease, such as hepatitis B or C, kidney disease, or are overweight. If a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult the doctor before using it. If you have any related questions about health, it is best to consult a healthcare provider.FAQs Q 1. Can Duovir Tablet be used as preventive measure against HIV?Duovir tablets are primarily used as part of a combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen to treat HIV infection, not as a preventive measure. If you are concerned about HIV prevention, speak to your healthcare provider about appropriate strategies, including PrEP.
Q 2. Can Duovir Tablet be used to treat hepatitis B?Duovir Tablet has previously been used to treat hepatitis B (HBV) infection. However, using these medications alone for HBV treatment is not advised because of the risk of developing resistance
Q 3. Can Duovir Tablet be used for children?Duovir tablets are approved for use in pediatric populations, including infants, children, and adolescents, to treat HIV infection. The dosages may vary based on the child's weight and age.
Q 4. Can Duovir Tablet cause lipodystrophy or changes in body fat distribution?Lipodystrophy refers to changes in body fat distribution that can occur in individuals ng certain antiretroviral medications. While Duovir tablets have been associated with fat loss and redistribution, the risk is generally lower than other medications.
Q 5. Can Duovir Tablet be stopped once the viral becomes undetectable?No, it is generally not recommended to stop taking Duovir Tablet or any other antiretroviral medications once the viral load becomes undetectable. A person should continue taking the prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider.
Q 6. Can Duovir Tablet be used in elderly individuals?Duovir Tablet can be used in elderly individuals who require antiretroviral therapy for HIV treatment. However, dosage adjustments and careful monitoring may be necessary due to age-related changes in kidney function.
Fact Box of Duovir TabletMolecule name: lamivudine and Zidovudine | Therapeutic class: Anti-viral |
Pharmacological class: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs). | Indications: Treatment of HIV – 1 infection |
