What is Abacavir? What is it used for? Side Effects, User Reviews

Abacavir is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). It belongs to the class of nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It works by preventing the replication of HIV within the cells it infects. Abacavir blocks the virus’s reverse transcriptase enzyme, halting the process of converting RNA to DNA, thus preventing the virus from integrating into human cells and replicating.

This drug is usually prescribed in combination with other antiretroviral drugs and plays a significant role in the treatment of HIV. While abacavir is effective in treatment, it also has potential side effects. The most serious side effect is abacavir hypersensitivity reaction (HSR), which can cause severe allergic reactions in some patients. Therefore, an HLA-B*5701 genetic test is usually conducted before using abacavir, and it is not given to individuals who are prone to this allergy.

Abacavir is just one of several drugs used in HIV/AIDS treatment, and each of these drugs has its own characteristics, mechanisms of action, and potential side effects. When making decisions about abacavir or other medications, it is important to always consult a health professional.

How is Abacavir used?

Abacavir can be taken with or without food. Abacavir tablets should be swallowed whole. If in liquid form, a measured syringe or special spoon should be used to ensure the correct dosage. For successful treatment, abacavir must be taken regularly. The medication should be taken at the prescribed times and doses. Missed doses can lead to HIV developing resistance to the medication. The daily dosage of abacavir is usually determined by the doctor based on the patient’s characteristics. In most cases, abacavir is taken once or twice a day. Dosage may vary based on the patient’s age, weight, and overall health condition.

What are the side effects of Abacavir?

While abacavir is an effective antiretroviral medication for HIV treatment, it can cause some side effects. Here are the common and serious side effects of abacavir:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache: Headache is a common side effect that may occur during the use of abacavir.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting after taking abacavir.
• Fatigue: Some patients taking abacavir may experience fatigue or weakness.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is also among the common side effects of abacavir.
• Abdominal Pain: Some individuals taking abacavir may experience abdominal pain or discomfort.
• Loss of Appetite: Loss of appetite can also occur during the use of abacavir.

Serious Side Effects:

• Abacavir Hypersensitivity Reaction (HSR): This is the most serious and potentially life-threatening side effect of abacavir. It may include symptoms such as fever, skin rash, difficulty breathing, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should seek medical help immediately.
• Liver Problems: Abacavir can cause liver function disorders in some patients. Symptoms may include jaundice, dark-colored urine, or light-colored stool.
• Lactic Acidosis: Rarely, abacavir can cause lactic acidosis, which is an excessive buildup of lactic acid in the body and a disruption of the acid-base balance.
• Immune System Changes: Some patients may experience reactivation of the immune system (immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome) after starting treatment, which can lead to the flare-up of previously controlled infections.

Frequently Asked Questions about Abacavir