Epzicom (Abacavir/Lamivudine)

Do’s

• Read the Medication Guide and Warning Card provided by your pharmacist before starting Epzicom and each time you get a refill. Carry the Warning Card with you at all times.
• Take Epzicom by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
• The combination product of Epzicom has fixed doses of abacavir and lamivudine, and it should only be used if your healthcare provider has determined that the doses are right for you.
• If you stop taking any medication containing abacavir, even for a short time, and then restart the drug, you have an increased chance of developing a very serious allergic reaction. Ensure to refill your medication before running out. Before restarting any medication containing abacavir, consult your healthcare provider
• Continue taking Epzicom (and other HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• If you experience symptoms listed on the Warning Card provided by your pharmacist while taking Epzicom, contact your healthcare provider immediately to determine if you should stop taking the medication.

Don’ts

• Do not stop treatment unless directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Do not skip any doses, increase your dose, take this drug more often than prescribed, or stop taking it unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your healthcare provider may cause the amount of virus to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat (resistant), or worsen side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Allergic reaction
• Depression, trouble sleeping
• Feeling weak or tired
• Headache, dizziness, migraine
• Nausea, diarrhea
• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea 
• Changes in body fat distribution, especially in the arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and trunk

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may also occur. If any side effects are experienced, contact a healthcare provider for medical advice.

Epzicom can cause severe or fatal allergic reactions.  Be vigilant for symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as fever, rash, gastrointestinal symptoms, general malaise, respiratory symptoms, and others. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention and consider discontinuing the medication.

Individuals with a gene variation called HLA-B*5701 are at a higher risk of experiencing an allergic reaction to Epzicom. Healthcare providers can determine the presence of this gene variation through a blood test.

Epzicom should not be taken by individuals with liver disease. Disclose all medical conditions and allergies to healthcare providers before starting Epzicom.

Discuss the risks and benefits of taking Epzicom during pregnancy with a healthcare provider. Additional information on the use of Epzicom during pregnancy can be obtained by referring to specific recommendations.

Epzicom may interact with other drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any new medication, changing diets, or starting or stopping any course of treatment.

The information provided here is not exhaustive, and individuals should consult healthcare providers for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Epzicom.