Abacavir / lamivudine (Epzicom®)

What is Epzicom®?

Epzicom® is a tablet that contains 2 medicines used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The 2 medications are called abacavir (Ziagen®) and lamivudine (Epivir® or 3TC). Both of these medicines belong to a group called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Epzicom® can slow down how soon you will see symptoms of HIV or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. Epzicom® tablets contain 600 mg of abacavir and 300 mg lamivudine.

How to take Epzicom®

• This tablet is usually taken one (1) time daily.
• Epzicom® can be taken with or without food. Taking this medicine right after you have eaten a meal may help prevent upset stomach.

Laboratory testing

A genetic test called HLA-B can be performed to determine if you might develop an allergic reaction to abacavir. If the test result is negative, your doctor may prescribe this medicine to you. If the test is positive, your doctor will consider using another medicine to treat your HIV. For information about HLA-B*5701 and abacavir hypersensitivity, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects of Epzicom®

• Rash
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Low blood counts
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

In case of severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist at 901-595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll- free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected.

During the first few weeks of therapy, some people taking Epzicom® develop a skin rash and 2 or more of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Severe tired feeling, achiness, or other “flu-like” symptoms
• Sore throat, shortness of breath, or cough

If you develop a rash during the first few weeks of therapy and you have 2 or more of these symptoms, stop taking Epzicom® right away, and call your St. Jude doctor or nurse. You should not take Epzicom® again unless the doctor tells you to do so.

Special instructions for Epzicom®

• Epzicom® tablets should be stored at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.
• Some side effects, such as low blood counts, can be found with blood tests, So, it is very important that you come to clinic at regularly planned times and have blood tests done.