Has your doctor prescribed you Entecavir? Or does someone you know use this medication? This is a very important medication that is usually given to treat a liver condition called chronic Hepatitis B. So today, let's talk about this medication, the correct way to use it, things to be careful about, and side effects in a very simple and friendly way.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Entecavir is an antiviral medication. It works by stopping the Hepatitis B virus from multiplying in your body, which means it controls the spread of the virus.
The most important thing is that this medicine cannot completely cure hepatitis B. But it can help you control the virus, minimize the damage to your liver, and live a healthy life.
That means this is a long-term medication, just like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Therefore, be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
- If you have any kidney disease.
- If you have a liver disease other than hepatitis B.
- If you have any weakness in your immune system.
- If you have had an allergic reaction to this Entecavir medicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
- If you have HIV infection . This is very important.
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medicine is suitable for you or not.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medication, it is very important to use it as directed.
1. Take on an empty stomach: This is the most important rule. Entecavir tablets should always be taken on an empty stomach . This means that you should take the tablet either two (2) hours before or two (2) hours after a meal. Never take this medicine with food.
2. Drink with a glass of water: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3. Take it on time: Make it a habit to take your medicine at the same time every day. This will help keep the concentration of the medicine in your blood at the same level.
4. Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice: Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice for any reason. Doing so can cause your hepatitis B to suddenly worsen.
If you give it to children...
This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children over 2 years of age. However, this is determined by a pediatrician. Therefore, if you are giving it to a child, talk to the doctor about it carefully and follow his instructions exactly.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken an overdose, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
We all forget to take our medicine sometimes. If that happens,
- Drink the forgotten amount as soon as you remember.
- However, if it is almost time for your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
- Never take a double dose of medicine at once.
Possible side effects of taking the medicine
Like any medicine, Entecavir can cause some side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Let's break these down into two categories.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, light-colored stools, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, extreme fatigue, nausea/vomiting. |
| Lactic Acidosis Symptoms | Difficulty breathing, unusual muscle pain, stomach pain, extreme fatigue, and chills. This is a serious condition. |
| Usually not serious, but tell your doctor if it persists. | |
| Headache | It usually subsides within a few days. |
| Dizziness | This may occur until the body gets used to the medication. |
| Insomnia | Sleep patterns may change. |
| Stomach upset/diarrhea | Often temporary. |
Other things to keep in mind while taking the medicine
- Don't skip medical tests: Your doctor will often ask you to come to the clinic and have blood tests. Be sure to do these. They check whether the medicine is working and whether it is affecting your liver or other organs.
- Tell your doctor about other medications: If you are taking any other medications (such as diabetes or high blood pressure), vitamins, herbal remedies, or Ayurvedic medicines, tell your doctor about them. Some medications may interact with Entecavir.
- Prevent the spread of the disease: Hepatitis B is a disease that is spread through blood and sexual contact. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent spreading the disease to others.
- Storing Medicines: Keep medications out of the reach of children, at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Throw away expired medications.
Take-Home Message
- Take Entecavir tablets at the same time every day, on an empty stomach (2 hours before or after a meal).
- Avoid stopping the medication for any reason without your doctor's advice.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and Ayurvedic medicines you are taking.
- Be sure to attend clinics on the scheduled dates and have all prescribed blood tests .
- If you experience any serious side effects such as yellowing of the skin, dark urine, or severe stomach pain, see your doctor immediately.
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