Epivir Oral Solution
By Epivir
Rx
240ml Oral Solution in a Bottle

Composition
Lamivudine(10mg)

Manufacturer - Glaxo SmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Dr. Annie Besant Road, Mumbai - 400 030

Expires on or after
July, 2025
About Epivir Oral Solution
Epivir Oral Solution is a medication used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It works by preventing the virus from multiplying in human cells, which stops the production of new viruses and helps clear up the infection. This oral solution is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, but it helps decrease the amount of HIV in the body, lowering the risk of complications and improving lifespan. It is usually prescribed alongside other HIV medicines, as recommended by your doctor who will determine the appropriate doses. It is vital to follow the instructions for all prescribed medicines, whether taken with or without food. Consistent and timely consumption of the medications enhances their effectiveness and reduces the risk of the virus becoming resistant.
Common side effects of Epivir Oral Solution may include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fatigue, diarrhea, and rash, which are typically mild. Inform your doctor if these symptoms persist or become bothersome. In rare cases, individuals may experience skin reactions or liver damage, warranting close monitoring by the healthcare provider during the initial treatment phase. It is important to disclose any skin problems or liver or kidney disease to your doctor before starting the medication. Regular blood tests may be necessary while using Epivir to monitor blood counts and liver function. Alcohol consumption should be avoided, as it may heighten the risk of liver damage. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should seek advice from their healthcare provider before using this medication.
People living with HIV should also take precautions to prevent transmission of the virus, such as avoiding unprotected sex and sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes. It is advisable to discuss safe practices, such as using condoms, with your doctor to minimize the risk of HIV transmission during sexual activity.
Benefits
Epivir Oral Solution provides several benefits for individuals dealing with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. By specifically targeting the HBV virus, this medication effectively inhibits its replication within the body. This action plays a critical role in managing the infection and enhancing the overall function of the immune system. As a result, the risk of developing complications associated with HBV decreases significantly while simultaneously improving the patient's quality of life.
It is important to note that Epivir Oral Solution is typically used in conjunction with other antiretroviral medications as part of an overall treatment plan. While it is not a cure for HBV, its ability to suppress viral replication and boost immune responses is essential in controlling the infection. It is crucial for individuals to adhere strictly to their prescribed dosage regimen, as consistent and timely intake of the medication is vital for maximizing its effectiveness.
In summary, the benefits of Epivir Oral Solution in the context of chronic HBV infection include reducing the risk of complications, enhancing immune function, and ultimately improving the overall well-being of patients. By following the recommended treatment plan and taking the medication as directed, individuals can significantly increase the positive outcomes associated with Epivir Oral Solution in managing chronic HBV infection.
How to use the Epivir Oral Solution
To use Epivir Oral Solution, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. First, check the label on the bottle for specific directions. Use a measuring cup to ensure the correct dosage, and take the medicine by mouth as directed. Before taking each dose, be sure to shake the bottle well. You can take Epivir Oral Solution with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day for the best results. Consistency is key when using this medication, so stick to the dosage and timing recommended by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Epivir Oral Solution, don't hesitate to consult your doctor for further guidance.
Uses of Epivir Oral Solution
Epivir Oral Solution is commonly used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It is an effective medication for managing this condition, providing relief and helping to control the spread of the virus in the body. By taking Epivir Oral Solution as prescribed by a healthcare professional, individuals with chronic HBV infection can experience improvement in their symptoms and liver function. This medication plays a crucial role in the treatment plan for HBV, offering patients a way to better manage their condition and enhance their overall health.
What conditions Epivir Oral Solution treats?
Epivir Oral Solution is primarily used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. For HIV, it helps reduce the amount of virus in the body, decreasing the risk of complications and enhancing lifespan. When used for chronic HBV infection, it helps control the virus, improves the immune system, and lowers the chances of complications. It is crucial to take this medicine as prescribed in combination with other medications and follow dosing instructions carefully for optimal effectiveness and to avoid drug resistance. Regular monitoring and blood tests may be required for those with skin problems or liver/kidney issues.
Should you consult a doctor?
If you experience any persistent side effects such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, stomach pain, or rash while taking Epivir Oral Solution, it is important to consult your doctor. Although these side effects are usually mild and temporary, it is essential to address any concerns with your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you notice any unusual symptoms, skin reactions, or signs of liver damage, seek medical attention promptly. It is crucial to inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing skin issues, liver problems, or kidney disease before starting this medication. Regular monitoring through blood tests is necessary during treatment to ensure your safety. If you have any questions or uncertainties regarding your condition or the medication, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you to prevent or manage any potential complications.
Side effects of Epivir Oral Solution
When taking Epivir Oral Solution, you may experience certain side effects. It's important to note that most side effects are usually temporary and go away as your body becomes used to the medication. However, if you find that the following side effects persist or if you are concerned about them, it is advised to consult your healthcare provider. Some common side effects of Epivir Oral Solution include headache, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, stomach pain, and rash. If any of these side effects trouble you, reach out to your doctor for further guidance.
Safety advice

liver
Epivir Oral Solution is considered safe for use in patients with liver disease. It is not necessary to adjust the dose of Epivir Oral Solution based on liver issues.

kidney
Epivir Oral Solution should be used carefully in patients with kidney disease. Adjusting the dosage may be necessary. Seek advice from your doctor.

alcohol
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Epivir Oral Solution. It is recommended to consult your doctor.

driving
When taking Epivir Oral Solution, it typically does not impact your driving ability.

pregnancy
Epivir Oral Solution is not recommended during pregnancy. Limited human studies suggest potential harm to the baby. Animal studies showed adverse effects on the developing fetus. Consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation of the benefits and risks before using this medication during pregnancy.

breastfeeding
Epivir Oral Solution is considered safe during breastfeeding, based on limited human data which indicates no significant risk to the baby.
Consumption warning before consuming Epivir Oral Solution
Before consuming Epivir Oral Solution, it is important to understand that this medication is used for treating HIV and chronic hepatitis B infections by preventing the virus from multiplying in human cells. It is not a cure for HIV or AIDS, but it helps reduce the virus levels in your body, lowering the risk of HIV-related complications and improving your overall health. Epivir Oral Solution should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, typically in combination with other HIV medications, to maximize its effectiveness.
Common side effects may include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and rash, but if these persist or become bothersome, it's essential to inform your doctor. Some individuals may rarely experience skin reactions or liver damage, which requires close monitoring during the initial treatment phase. Patients with skin issues, liver, or kidney disease should inform their doctor before starting this medication, and regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor blood counts and liver function.
It is vital to take the medication consistently as directed, not missing any doses, and continuing until your doctor advises otherwise. It can be taken with or without food, but alcohol consumption should be avoided due to the increased risk of liver damage. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using this medicine. Additionally, precautions should be taken to prevent HIV transmission to others, such as using condoms during sex and avoiding sharing personal items.
What if you forgot to take Epivir Oral Solution?
If you forget to take a dose of Epivir Oral Solution, try to take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, just continue with your regular dosing schedule and skip the missed dose. It's important not to take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Remember, consistency in taking your medication is crucial for its effectiveness.
Related lab tests
When using Epivir Oral Solution, it's important to monitor certain lab tests to ensure proper treatment and management. The related lab tests for this medication include Hepatitis B (Core) IgM Antibody, Hepatitis B s (Surface) Antigen, and Hepatitis C Virus Total Antibody. These tests help healthcare providers assess the status of hepatitis infections and guide the appropriate management of the condition. Monitoring these lab tests while on Epivir Oral Solution can help track the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure better health outcomes.
Additional Information
Habit Forming | No |
Chemical Class | Nucleoside analogue |
Therapeutic Class | - |
Action Class | - |
FAQs
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is to the best of our abilities to ensure it is accurate, reliable, and reviewed by a team of professionals. It should not be used to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. The information presented here is not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship or replace a registered medical practitioner's advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The absence or provision of any information or warning regarding any medicine should not be assumed as an implied or explicit assurance of safety or efficacy. We highly recommend consulting your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the content encountered on our website. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.
₹1350
Inclusive of all taxes
Content verified by

Dr. Archana Prabhakar
MBBS, M.Med (Family Medicine)
Last update on 11-Feb-2025