Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Trizivir

Generic Name: abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Pronunciation: a BACK a veer, la MIV yoo deen, zye DOE vyoo deen)

What is abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Trizivir) (Trizivir)?

Abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Trizivir) is an antiviral medication. It is in a group of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) medicines called reverse transcriptase inhibitors. This medication helps keep the HIV virus from reproducing in the body.

This medication is used to treat HIV, which causes the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This medication is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.

This medication may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. This medication should not be given to people who weigh less than 90 pounds.

Trizivir

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What are the possible side effects of abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Trizivir) (Trizivir)?

Group 1 - fever;
Group 2 - rash;
Group 3 - nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;
Group 4 - general tiredness, body aches;
Group 5 - shortness of breath, cough, sore throat.

You may have other serious side effects that may not be signs of an allergic reaction. Continue using this medicine and call your doctor if you have any of these side effects:

liver problems -- stomach pain, low fever, lost appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
lactic acidosis - muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs, trouble breathing, stomach pain, nausea with vomiting, slow or uneven heart rate, dizziness, or feeling very weak or tired;
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, pale skin; or
white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips.

Less serious side effects may include:

changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and trunk);
sleep problems or strange dreams;
headache, depression, anxiety; or
mild diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Trizivir) (Trizivir)?

Do not allow this medicine to run out completely before you get your prescription refilled. If you miss several doses, you could have a dangerous or even fatal allergic reaction when you start taking the medicine again. If you stop taking this medication for any reason, talk to your doctor before you start taking the medication again.

Some people have developed a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis while taking this medicine. Early signs of lactic acidosis generally get worse over time and this condition can be fatal. Get emergency medical help if you have even mild symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as: muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs, trouble breathing, stomach pain, nausea with vomiting, slow or uneven heart rate, dizziness, or feeling very weak or tired.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine (Trizivir) (Trizivir)?»

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.