Entecavir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat chronic hepatitis B, a viral infection that affects the liver. It works by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the body, reducing the viral load and helping to prevent liver damage.
Key Information about Entecavir Tablets:
- Brand Names: Entecavir is marketed under various brand names, including Baraclude.
- Indications:
- Chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and children (usually those over 2 years old).
- Used to reduce the amount of the hepatitis B virus in the blood and to help prevent liver damage or cirrhosis.
- Mechanism of Action: Entecavir is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by blocking an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is necessary for the virus to replicate and spread.
Dosage:
- The typical dose for adults with chronic hepatitis B is 0.5 mg once daily if they are treatment-naive (not previously treated with other antiviral medications), and 1 mg once daily for those who have previously been treated with antiviral medications.
- For children, the dose depends on the child’s weight and age.
Side Effects:
Common side effects of entecavir include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Serious side effects can include:
- Lactic acidosis (a build-up of lactic acid in the blood, which can be life-threatening)
- Liver problems, especially if treatment is stopped suddenly
- Severe allergic reactions (rare)
Precautions:
- Kidney function: The dosage of entecavir may need to be adjusted for individuals with impaired kidney function.
- Hepatitis B reactivation: If treatment is stopped, the hepatitis B virus may reactivate. Therefore, discontinuation should be done under the guidance of a doctor.
- Pregnancy: The safety of entecavir during pregnancy has not been established, so it should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Storage:
- Store entecavir tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
If you’re considering entecavir for hepatitis B treatment, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate the need, monitor for potential side effects, and ensure that it’s the right treatment for you.
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