Lamivir contains lamivudine, an antiviral medicine that plays an important role in the treatment of HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, which work by interfering with the virus’s ability to multiply. Lamivir is often used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines to improve its effectiveness and reduce the risk of resistance.

Mechanism of Action:
Lamivir works by targeting the enzyme that viruses like HIV and hepatitis B need to reproduce:

• Lamivudine is taken up by virus-infected cells and converted into its active form.

• It blocks an enzyme called reverse transcriptase in HIV or DNA polymerase in hepatitis B virus.

• This prevents the virus from copying its genetic material, which is essential for it to grow and spread.

• As a result, the amount of virus in the body is reduced, helping to slow down the progression of the disease.

  Uses:
  Lamivir is commonly used for:

  • HIV infection: It is a part of combination antiretroviral therapy to control the virus, maintain immune function, and prevent complications.

  • Chronic hepatitis B: It helps reduce liver damage and viral load in people with long-term hepatitis B infection.

  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): In some cases, lamivudine is included in treatment given after potential exposure to HIV.

  Adverse Effects:
  Lamivir is usually well tolerated, but some people may experience side effects. Common ones include:

  • Headache

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea