How to use
Lamivudine should be taken orally, once or twice a day. You can take this medication with or without food.

Follow the directions of your doctor exactly as he will determine your dosage based on a variety of factors, including your height, weight, age, general health and the condition that is being treated.

Overdose
If you suspect you have taken too much Lamivudine, contact your local posion control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Lamivudine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not try to make up for a missed dose by doubling up.

Notes
Make sure to always use an effective barrier method during sexual activity to prevent infection with the HIV-virus or Hepatitis B.

Do not share this medication with others, as they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by this drug.

You should have regular medical tests and check-ups while taking Lamivudine to see how you are responding to the medication and if you are suffering from any side effects.

Storage
Store Lamivudine at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), away from heat and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATION OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. 

Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

Precautions
Before taking Lamivudine, discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you suffer or have suffered from:

• Kidney diseases
• Pancreatic disorders
• Any allergies
• Heart diseases
• Major surgeries, infections or injuries
• Liver problems
• Excessive alcohol usage

If you are diabetic and you are using Lamivudine in liquid form, talk to your doctor first. This medication contains sucrose, so when you begin using this medication as a diabetic it is strongly recommended to monitor your blood sugar levels closely.

Children (especially those suffering from Pancreatitis) and elderly people may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication, so caution is recommended if any of these age groups start using Lamivudine.

Lamivudine is classed as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means no adequate studies have been done to determine the risks of this medication when used by pregnant women. You should not use it when pregnant. Contact your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment.
Lamivudine passes into breast milk and could potentially harm a nursing infant. Therefore, you should not use this medication when breast feeding.

Drug Interactions
Before using Lamivudine, tell your doctor of all prescription and non-prescription medication you use, especially:

• Ulfamethoxazole
• Trimethoprim
• Zalcitabine
• Abacavir
• Lamivudine/zidovudine combination products
• Tenofovir

This is only a partial list and other drugs may interact with Lamivudine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Common potential side effects of Lamivudine include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Infections of the ear, nose or throat

If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Inform your doctor straightaway if any of the following unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• Mental or mood changes
• Muscle or joint pain
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of eyes or skin

Contact your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• Deep or rapid breathing
• Drowsiness
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following unlikely but serious allergic reactions to Lamivudine:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

Notify your doctor if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.