Side Effects of Abacavir/Lamivudine

Certain side effects of abacavir/lamivudine, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately, such as anxiety, depression, and anemia. However, most people tolerate the drug well. When side effects do occur, they are usually minor and don't require medical attention. Insomnia, headache, and dizziness are some of the most commonly reported abacavir/lamivudine side effects.

 

Abacavir/Lamivudine Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with abacavir/lamivudine (Epzicom™); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with abacavir/lamivudine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of abacavir/lamivudine side effects with you.)
 

Abacavir/Lamivudine Side Effects to Report

Some side effects with abacavir/lamivudine, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Anemia
  • Frequent infections, which may be a sign of low neutrophil levels in the blood (known medically as neutropenia)
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising, which may be a sign of low blood platelets (known as thrombocytopenia)
  • Worsening of a hepatitis B infection
  • Symptoms of lactic acidosis (too much lactic acid in the blood), such as:

 

    • Feeling tired or weak
    • Muscle pain
    • Trouble breathing
    • Stomach pain
    • Feeling cold
    • Cold or blue hands and feet
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • A slow or irregular heartbeat
    • Persistent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
    • Shortness of breath
    • An enlarged or tender liver
    • Weight loss

 

  • Signs of liver problems, such as yellow eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, or liver enlargement or pain
  • Changes in the distribution of fat on your body (such as a "buffalo hump")
  • Depression (see Epzicom and Depression)
  • Anxiety.
     
(Side Effects of Abacavir/Lamivudine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;