ABALAM 600mg Tablet contains the active substances Abacavir and Lamivudine. It belongs to a group of medicines known as Antiretroviral Agents (NRTIs - Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors). It is primarily used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infection.
ABALAM helps reduce the amount of HIV in the body by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which the virus needs to multiply. This helps improve immune function, increase CD4 cell counts, and reduce the risk of HIV-related complications and opportunistic infections.
ABALAM 600mg Tablets should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional experienced in HIV management and should not be used as a cure for HIV infection.
Uses of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
- Treatment of HIV-1 Infection
- Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
- Reduction of Viral Load
- Improvement of Immune System Function
- Prevention of HIV Disease Progression
Therapeutic Effects of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
ABALAM 600mg Tablets combine two antiviral medicines that work together to inhibit HIV replication. By blocking reverse transcriptase activity, the medicine reduces the production of new virus particles. This helps lower viral load, improve immune response, and decrease the risk of HIV-related illnesses.
Interaction of ABALAM 600mg Tablets with Other Drugs
It is important to inform your healthcare professional about all medicines you are taking, including prescription medications, supplements, and herbal products.
Notable interactions include:
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Methadone: May require dosage adjustment.
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Ribavirin: May increase the risk of liver-related complications.
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Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole: May increase Lamivudine levels.
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Other Antiretroviral Medicines: May require monitoring and dosage adjustments.
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Alcohol: May increase exposure to Abacavir and increase side effects.
More Information about ABALAM 600mg Tablets
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place.
- Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Do not use after the expiry date.
- Continue treatment regularly even if you feel well.
How to Consume ABALAM 600mg Tablets
ABALAM 600mg Tablets are oral medications meant to be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They can be taken with or without food.
Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and at the same time every day. Missing doses may reduce treatment effectiveness and increase the risk of developing drug-resistant HIV.
Safety Advice for ABALAM 600mg Tablets
Breast Feeding
Unsafe / Not Recommended
Women living with HIV are generally advised not to breastfeed due to the risk of HIV transmission to the infant.
Alcohol
Caution
Alcohol may increase Abacavir exposure and worsen certain side effects.
Liver
Caution
Patients with liver disease require careful monitoring during treatment.
Kidneys
Caution
Kidney function should be monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disorders.
Driving
Caution
ABALAM may cause dizziness, tiredness, or weakness in some individuals. Avoid driving if affected.
Pregnancy
Use Under Medical Supervision
This medicine may be used during pregnancy when prescribed by a healthcare professional after evaluating potential benefits and risks.
Side Effects of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Although not everyone experiences them, some patients may develop side effects.
Common Side Effects of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
Serious Side Effects of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
- Severe hypersensitivity reactions
- Liver toxicity
- Lactic acidosis
- Severe skin reactions
- Pancreatitis
- Multi-organ allergic reactions
Word of Advice
Patients should be screened for the HLA-B*5701 genetic marker before starting therapy, as those who test positive have a significantly increased risk of serious hypersensitivity reactions to Abacavir. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, rash, breathing difficulty, abdominal pain, or severe weakness. Never restart the medicine after a confirmed allergic reaction unless advised by your doctor.
FAQs about ABALAM 600mg Tablets
Q1. What is ABALAM 600mg Tablet used for?
It is used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
Q2. Can ABALAM cure HIV?
No. ABALAM helps control HIV infection but does not cure it.
Q3. Why is HLA-B*5701 testing important?
This test helps identify patients at risk of severe allergic reactions to Abacavir.
Q4. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Q5. Can I stop taking ABALAM if I feel better?
No. HIV treatment should be continued exactly as prescribed to maintain viral suppression and prevent resistance.
Fact Box of ABALAM 600mg Tablets
Molecule Name: Abacavir 600mg + Lamivudine 300mg
Therapeutic Class: Antiretroviral Agents
Pharmacological Class: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs)
Indications: HIV-1 Infection, Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), Viral Load Suppression, Immune System Support, Prevention of HIV Progression.
