Epivir

Epivir is used for:

Treating HIV infection in combination with other medicines.

Epivir is a nucleoside analogue. It works by blocking the growth of HIV.

Do NOT use Epivir if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Epivir
• you have an enlarged liver, abnormal liver function tests, or high levels of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis)
• you are taking zalcitabine or other medicines containing lamivudine

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Epivir :

Some medical conditions may interact with Epivir . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have a history of muscle problems, pancreas problems, abnormal blood cell counts, liver disease (eg, hepatitis) or other liver problems (eg, abnormal liver function tests), kidney problems, diabetes, lactic acidosis, or a nerve disorder
• if you are very overweight

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Epivir . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole because it may increase the risk of Epivir 's side effects
• Zalcitabine because it may decrease Epivir 's effectiveness
• Interferon alfa or ribavirin because severe liver problems may occur

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Epivir may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.