Did your doctor prescribe this medicine because you have HIV? If so, you may have some questions, perhaps even some concerns, about this medicine. That's normal. So today, let's talk about the most important things you need to know about this medicine in a very simple and friendly way. Let's take a look at what it actually does, how exactly to use it, and what special precautions you need to take.
What does this medicine actually do?
Simply put, this is a combination of two medications. That is, Lamivudine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate are combined into one pill. These belong to the group of antiretroviral medications that treat HIV infection.
The main function of this medicine is to control the spread of the HIV virus inside your body, that is, to control the multiplication of the virus. This reduces the damage to your body's immune system and helps you live a healthy life.
But it is important to remember that this medicine does not completely cure HIV infection or AIDS. Also, even when you are taking this medicine, there is still a chance that you can pass the HIV virus to someone else. Therefore, it is essential to follow safe methods. It also does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
For your safety and the success of your treatment, it is important to tell your doctor the following information before starting this medication. Do not hide anything.
- Bone problems: If you have had any bone-related conditions (such as osteoporosis) in the past.
- Kidney disease: If you have any kidney related condition.
- Liver disease: If you have a liver disease (e.g. Hepatitis B).
- Pancreatitis: If you have had this condition before.
- Allergies: Tell us if you have any allergies, not only to the ingredients in this medicine, but also to any other medicine, food, or preservatives.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or hoping to get pregnant in the near future.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or not, or whether the dosage needs to be changed.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of the medicine, it is very important to know how to use it correctly.
- Take this pill with a glass of water.
- You can take this before or after meals. However, if you sometimes feel an upset stomach, it is better to take it with food.
- The most important thing is to take this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the right time, without missing a single day. If you skip your medication, the HIV virus can become resistant to this medicine and other medicines. If that happens, it will be very difficult to treat.
- Continue taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop taking it abruptly, even if you feel better.
What to do if you overdose?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at the same time as you missed a dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
While you are taking this medicine, taking some other medicines may cause side effects or reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Below are some medicines that may interact with this medicine.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Other HIV medications | Atazanavir, Darunavir, Emtricitabine, Lopinavir; ritonavir, Saquinavir |
| Medicines for other viral infections | Acyclovir, Adefovir, Cidofovir, Ganciclovir, Ribavirin, Ledipasvir; sofosbuvir |
| Some antibiotics | Gentamicin, Tobramycin, Trimethoprim |
| Pain and inflammation medications (NSAIDs) | Ibuprofen, Naproxen |
| Other | Medicines containing Interferon, Sorbitol |
This list is not complete, so it's best to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Visit the clinic on scheduled days to see your doctor to check the progress of your treatment. Also, don't miss any necessary blood tests.
- If you develop any new symptoms, talk to your doctor about them.
- Talk openly with your doctor and seek advice on how to prevent the HIV virus from being transmitted to others.
- Special Note: If you have Hepatitis B infection along with HIV, do not stop taking this medicine for any reason without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause your Hepatitis B condition to suddenly worsen.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. But not everyone gets them. Let's take a look at what they are and what to do if they happen.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark yellow/brown urine, unusual tiredness. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urination, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| High lactic acid level | Muscle cramps or pain, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue. |
| Pancreatitis | Severe pain in the upper abdomen (this pain may feel like it's going to your back), pain that gets worse when you eat, fever, nausea, and vomiting. |
| Bone pain | New or severe bone pain. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | General headache. |
| Indigestion/diarrhea | Bloating or stomach discomfort. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Changes in mental status | The occurrence or increase of feelings such as depression . |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine controls HIV infection, but it does not completely cure it.
- Take your medicine on time, as your doctor tells you, without missing a single day. Never skip a dose.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking and any other medical conditions you have.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious side effect (e.g., severe stomach pain, yellowing of the skin/eyes, difficulty breathing).
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't be afraid to talk openly with your doctor about it.
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