Brand names: Ziagen

Why is Abacavir sulfate prescribed?

Ziagen helps to halt the inroads of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Without treatment, HIV gradually undermines the body’s immune system, encouraging other infections to take hold until the body succumbs to full-blown acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Like other anti-HIV drugs, Ziagen holds back the advance of the virus by disrupting its reproductive cycle. This medication is used only as part of a “drug cocktail” that attacks the virus on several fronts. It is not prescribed alone.

Most important fact about Abacavir sulfate

Ziagen is not a cure for HIV infection or AIDS. It does not completely eliminate HIV from the body or totally restore the immune system. You will continue to face the danger of serious opportunistic infections (unusual infections that develop only when the immune system falters). It’s important, therefore, to continue seeing your doctor for regular blood counts and tests, and to notify him immediately of any changes in your general health.

How should you take Abacavir sulfate?

It is important to keep adequate levels of Ziagen in your bloodstream at all times, so be sure to keep a supply on hand at all times and take Abacavir sulfate exactly as prescribed, even when you’re feeling better. Ziagen may be taken with or without food.

• If you miss a dose…
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

• Storage instructions…
  Both the tablets and the oral solution may be stored at room temperature. The oral solution may also be refrigerated, but do not allow it to freeze.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Ziagen.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, fever or chills, generally ill feeling, headache/migraine, joint pain, mouth ulcers, muscle aches or weakness, nausea, rash, severe blisters in the mouth and eyes, severe peeling skin, shortness of breath, skin tingling or burning, sleep disorders, sore throat, swelling, tiredness, vomiting

Why should Abacavir sulfate not be prescribed?

If the active ingredient abacavir gives you an allergic reaction, you must never take it again. Make sure the doctor knows the results of all the drug treatments you’ve been given.

You will not be able to use Ziagen if you have moderate-to-severe liver disease.

Special warnings about Abacavir sulfate

Be alert for development of a skin rash, severe peeling skin, or two or more of the following sets of symptoms:

• Fever
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
• Severe tiredness, aches and pains, or a generally ill feeling
• Sore throat, shortness of breath, or cough

If these symptoms appear, stop taking Ziagen and call your doctor immediately. You may be experiencing a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Once you’ve had such a reaction, never take Ziagen again. In fact, avoid Ziagen permanently if there’s even a possibility that you’ve had an allergic reaction. Additional doses could trigger a dangerous drop in blood pressure and other life-threatening symptoms.

Keep in mind, too, that a severe and even fatal allergic reaction is possible when you resume taking Ziagen after an interruption in therapy— even if you’ve never experienced signs of an allergic reaction before. Resume Ziagen therapy only under your doctor’s close supervision.

If you are overweight or have been taking HIV drugs similar to Ziagen for a long period of time, you are more likely to develop liver problems and a complication called lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the body). If you develop either of these conditions, your doctor will take you off of Ziagen.

Like other HIV drugs, Ziagen sometimes causes a redistribution of body fat, resulting in added weight around the waist, a “buffalo hump” of fat on the upper back, breast enlargement, and wasting of the face, arms, and legs. It’s not known why this occurs, or what long-term effects it might have.

Because Ziagen and other HIV medications do not completely eliminate the virus, it remains possible to infect others with HIV through sexual contact or blood contamination. Continue to practice safe sex while using Ziagen.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Abacavir sulfate

If you are taking methadone, there is a slight chance that your dosage of methadone may need to be increased.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Ziagen during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

Since HIV infection can be passed to your baby through breast milk, you should avoid breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Abacavir sulfate

ADULTS

The recommended dose is 300 milligrams twice a day in combination with other anti-HIV drugs.

CHILDREN

The recommended dose for children and adolescents 3 months to 16 years of age is 8 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight twice a day in combination with other anti-HIV drugs. Do not exceed 300 milligrams twice a day.

DOSAGE ADJUSTMENT

Ziagen oral solution is recommended for people with mild liver problems. The usual dose is 10 milliliters (200 milligrams) twice a day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Ziagen, seek medical attention immediately.

Brand names: Trizivir

Why is Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine prescribed?

Trizivir combines three drugs used to fight HIV, the deadly virus that undermines the immune system, leaving the body ever more vulnerable to infection, and eventually leading to AIDS. The components of Trizivir are all members of the category of HIV drugs known as nucleoside analogs:

Abacavir (also called Ziagen)
Lamivudine (also called Epivir or 3TC)
Zidovudine (also called Retrovir, AZT, or ZDV)

Trizivir may be prescribed alone or in combination with other HIV drugs. It reduces the amount of HIV in the bloodstream, but does not completely cure the disease. You may still develop the rare infections and other complications that accompany HIV. Remember, too, that Trizivir does not reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Most important fact about Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine

The abacavir (Ziagen) component of Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine which can cause a serious, possibly fatal allergic reaction. You should stop taking Trizivir and seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of the following symptoms: abdominal pain, body aches, cough, diarrhea, extreme fatigue, fever, general ill feeling, nausea, shortness of breath, skin rash, severe peeling skin, sore throat, vomiting. These symptoms usually appear during the first 6 weeks of therapy, but may occur any time during treatment. If they do occur, do not take another dose of Trizivir until you’ve seen your doctor.

If you have to stop taking Trizivir because of this allergic reaction, you must never take Trizivir or Ziagen again. Once you’ve had such a reaction, taking either drug could lead to death within hours.

When your prescription for Trizivir is filled, the pharmacist will give you a “warning card” that lists the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Be sure to read it and to carry it with you.

How should you take Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine?

Trizivir is usually taken twice a day, with or without food. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and not to miss any doses. Be sure to refill your prescription before your supply runs out. If HIV drugs are stopped for even a short time, the virus can increase rapidly and may become harder to treat.

• If you miss a dose…
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

• Storage instructions…
  Store Trizivir tablets at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Trizivir.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, allergic reaction, blisters in the mouth or eyes, blood and lymph disorders, breast enlargement in males, chills, cough, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, enlarged spleen, fatigue, fever, hair loss, headache, heart problems, high blood sugar, hives, ill feeling, indigestion, inflamed blood vessels, insomnia and other sleep problems, joint pain, liver problems, loss of appetite, mouth inflammation, muscle pain or weakness, nasal symptoms, nausea, pain or tingling in the hands or feet, pancreatitis, redistribution of body fat, seizures, severe peeling skin, skin rash, vomiting, weakness, wheezing

Why should Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine not be prescribed?

Do not take Trizivir if you have ever had an allergic reaction to its abacavir component (either in Trizivir itself or as the drug Ziagen).

You also cannot take Trizivir if you weigh less than 90 pounds or have severe kidney disease

Special warnings about Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine

Trizivir has been known to cause liver problems and a serious medical condition called lactic acidosis. This condition is more likely to develop in women, people who are overweight, those at risk of liver disease, and patients who have been taking nucleoside analogs for a long time. Your doctor will perform blood tests to monitor for lactic acidosis. In addition, be alert for warning signs of the problem, such as persistent nausea and fatigue, and notify your doctor if they occur. Be sure to let your doctor know if you’ve had liver problems in the past. Trizivir is not recommended under these circumstances.

When first beginning therapy with Trizivir, your immune system may have an inflammatory reaction to other infections in your body, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Treatment with Trizivir can cause serious blood disorders including anemia (low red blood cell count) and neutropenia (low white cell count). You will need to have frequent blood tests performed while you are taking Trizivir.

Prolonged treatment with Trizivir has the potential to cause diseases of the muscles. Be sure to tell your doctor about any muscle pain or weakness you experience.

Treatment with HIV drugs, including Trizivir, sometimes causes a redistribution of body fat, resulting in added weight around the waist, a “buffalo hump” of fat on the upper back, breast enlargement, and wasting of the face, arms, and legs. It’s not known why this occurs, or what long-term effects it might have.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine

Do not combine Trizivir with Epivir, Combivir, Retrovir, or Ziagen, since these drugs contain ingredients in Trizivir. Also avoid Zerit while taking Trizivir.

In addition, if Trizivir is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Trizivir with the following:

Alcohol
Atovaquone (Mepron)
Abacavir/lamivudine (Epzicom)
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Doxil, Rubex)
Drugs used for bone marrow suppression and cancer therapy
Emtricitabine/tenofovir (Truvada)
Fluconazole (Diflucan)
Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
Interferon-alpha (Intron, Roferon)
Lamivudine/zidovudine (Combivir)
Methadone
Nelfinavir (Viracept)
Probenecid (Benemid)
Ribavirin (Virazole)
Ritonavir (Norvir, Kaletra)
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
Valproic acid (Depakene)
Zalcitabine (Hivid)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Abacavir (one of the components of Trizivir) may cause fetal defects, such as lowered body weight, problems with skeleton formation, and even stillbirth. Trizivir should be used only if the benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the developing baby.

Because the virus can be passed to a baby through breast milk, breastfeeding is not recommended for mothers with HIV. Both lamivudine and zidovudine (components of Trizivir) appear in breast milk.

Recommended dosage for Abacavir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine

ADULTS

The recommended dose of Trizivir is 1 tablet twice daily with or without food.

CHILDREN

Trizivir is not intended for children and adolescents who weigh less than 90 pounds. Teenagers who weigh more than 90 pounds receive the adult dose.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Trizivir overdose may include:
  Confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, lack of energy, nausea, vomiting

Generic name: Aripiprazole
Brand names: Abilify, Abilify/Abilify Discmelt

What is Abilify?

Abilify is an antipsychotic drug used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 to 17 years old. It is also used to treat manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder in adults and children and adolescents 10 to 17 years old. Abilify may also be used with antidepressants to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

What is the most important information I should know about Abilify?

Abilify is not approved for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to the risk of death.

If you or a family member notices new signs of nervousness, agitation, panic attacks, sleeplessness, irritability, aggressiveness, and other mood changes on a day-to-day basis, notify your doctor right away. These signs may be associated with an increased risk of suicidal thinking.

Hyperglycemia, or elevated blood sugar, may occur when taking Abilify. If you have diabetes mellitus, monitor your blood sugar levels carefully.

Report any sudden changes in temperature, heart rate (arrhythmia), or heart palpitations to your doctor, as these may be symptoms of a serious side effect. Also report any involuntary movements, seizures, or the inability to swallow while taking Abilify.

An extreme drop in blood pressure when standing rapidly from a lying or sitting position may cause extreme dizziness and/or fainting. Sitting up slowly, then standing up slowly may help prevent this.

Who should not take Abilify?

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis should not receive Abilify.

If you have kidney and/or liver disease, you should be monitored closely.

If you are taking antidepressants, you should be monitored closely for changes in mood and/or behavior.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Abilify?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Abilify. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or are recovering from a heart attack.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor’s approval.

Bipolar Disorder

Adults: The initial dose is 15 milligrams (mg) daily, which can be increased to 30 mg daily if needed. Treatment may be as long as 6 weeks.

Children and adolescents 10 to 17 years old: The recommended dose of Abilify is 10 mg daily, as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy with lithium or valproate. Start with 2 mg daily, then titrate to 10 mg daily over a period of 4 days.

Major Depressive Disorder

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify as adjuvant treatment for patients already taking an antidepressant is 2 to 5 mg daily. The dose may be increased up to 15 mg daily if necessary.

Schizophrenia

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify is 10 to 15 mg daily. Dosage increases, if necessary, should not be made before 2 weeks of initiation of therapy.

Adolescents 13 to 17 years old: The recommended starting dose is 10 mg daily, which may be increased to 15 mg daily if needed.

How should I take Abilify?

Abilify tablets should be taken as one dose, with or without food, as directed.

For the Abilify Discmelt orally disintegrating tablets, use dry hands to remove the tablet, and place the entire tablet on your tongue. Tablet disintegration occurs rapidly in saliva. Although it is recommended to take the disintegrating tablet without liquid, you may do so if needed. Do not attempt to split the tablets.

What should I avoid while taking Abilify?

Because Abilify has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, use caution when operating machinery, including automobiles, until you know how Abilify affects you.

Avoid alcohol while taking Abilify.

Avoid rapid movements, such as quickly rising from a seated or lying position, as this can cause severe dizziness and/or fainting.

Avoid strenuous exercise, or prolonged exposure to heat, since this could contribute to a rise in core body temperature and dehydration.

Avoid excessive sugar intake if you have diabetes, since Abilify may elevate blood sugar levels.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Abilify?

If Abilify is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Abilify with the following: alcohol, blood pressure drugs, carbamazepine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, paroxetine, and quinidine.

What are the possible side effects of Abilify?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Abilify.

Side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, nervousness, sleeplessness, restlessness, tremors

Can I receive Abilify if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Abilify during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Abilify?

Since Abilify is taken once daily, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is within 12 hours, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. Never double the dose.

How should I store Abilify?

Store at room temperature.

Generic name: Aripiprazole
Brand names: Abilify, Abilify/Abilify Discmelt

What is Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Abilify is an antipsychotic drug used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 to 17 years old. It is also used to treat manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder in adults and children and adolescents 10 to 17 years old. Abilify may also be used with antidepressants to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

What is the most important information I should know about Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Abilify is not approved for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to the risk of death.

If you or a family member notices new signs of nervousness, agitation, panic attacks, sleeplessness, irritability, aggressiveness, and other mood changes on a day-to-day basis, notify your doctor right away. These signs may be associated with an increased risk of suicidal thinking.

Hyperglycemia, or elevated blood sugar, may occur when taking Abilify. If you have diabetes mellitus, monitor your blood sugar levels carefully.

Report any sudden changes in temperature, heart rate (arrhythmia), or heart palpitations to your doctor, as these may be symptoms of a serious side effect. Also report any involuntary movements, seizures, or the inability to swallow while taking Abilify.

An extreme drop in blood pressure when standing rapidly from a lying or sitting position may cause extreme dizziness and/or fainting. Sitting up slowly, then standing up slowly may help prevent this.

Who should not take Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis should not receive Abilify.

If you have kidney and/or liver disease, you should be monitored closely.

If you are taking antidepressants, you should be monitored closely for changes in mood and/or behavior.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Abilify. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or are recovering from a heart attack.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor’s approval.

Bipolar Disorder

Adults: The initial dose is 15 milligrams (mg) daily, which can be increased to 30 mg daily if needed. Treatment may be as long as 6 weeks.

Children and adolescents 10 to 17 years old: The recommended dose of Abilify is 10 mg daily, as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy with lithium or valproate. Start with 2 mg daily, then titrate to 10 mg daily over a period of 4 days.

Major Depressive Disorder

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify as adjuvant treatment for patients already taking an antidepressant is 2 to 5 mg daily. The dose may be increased up to 15 mg daily if necessary.

Schizophrenia

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify is 10 to 15 mg daily. Dosage increases, if necessary, should not be made before 2 weeks of initiation of therapy.

Adolescents 13 to 17 years old: The recommended starting dose is 10 mg daily, which may be increased to 15 mg daily if needed.

How should I take Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Abilify tablets should be taken as one dose, with or without food, as directed.

For the Abilify Discmelt orally disintegrating tablets, use dry hands to remove the tablet, and place the entire tablet on your tongue. Tablet disintegration occurs rapidly in saliva. Although it is recommended to take the disintegrating tablet without liquid, you may do so if needed. Do not attempt to split the tablets.

What should I avoid while taking Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Because Abilify has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, use caution when operating machinery, including automobiles, until you know how Abilify affects you.

Avoid alcohol while taking Abilify.

Avoid rapid movements, such as quickly rising from a seated or lying position, as this can cause severe dizziness and/or fainting.

Avoid strenuous exercise, or prolonged exposure to heat, since this could contribute to a rise in core body temperature and dehydration.

Avoid excessive sugar intake if you have diabetes, since Abilify may elevate blood sugar levels.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

If Abilify is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Abilify with the following: alcohol, blood pressure drugs, carbamazepine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, paroxetine, and quinidine.

What are the possible side effects of Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Abilify/Abilify Discmelt.

Side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, nervousness, sleeplessness, restlessness, tremors

Can I receive Abilify/Abilify Discmelt if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Abilify during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Since Abilify is taken once daily, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is within 12 hours, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. Never double the dose.

How should I store Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Store at room temperature.