Epzicom

Screen for presence of HLA-B*5701 allele prior to starting therapy or reinitiation; if (+), abacavir is contraindicated. Discontinue immediately if hypersensitivity is suspected, regardless of HLA-B*5701 status and even when other diagnoses are possible. If hypersensitivity cannot be ruled out, do not restart. If stopped for reasons other than hypersensitivity, restart only if medical care can be readily accessed. Not for treating chronic HBV infection; closely monitor patients co-infected with HBV and HIV for several months after stopping treatment (discontinuing therapy may exacerbate HBV infection); if appropriate, initiate anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted. Suspend if lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity (eg, hepatomegaly, steatosis) occurs. Possible risk of MI; minimize risk factors for coronary heart disease (eg, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking). Renal impairment (CrCl 30–49mL/min): monitor for hematologic toxicities; if new or worsening neutropenia or anemia develop, adjust lamivudine dose. Women. Obesity. Elderly. Pregnancy. Nursing mothers: not recommended.