Kivexa

Abacavir sulfate and lamivudine, the active ingredient in Kivexa, is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor presented as a 600 mg/300 mg tablet for oral use. It treats HIV-1 infection in adults and children when used with other antiretroviral agents.

GNH USA supplies Kivexa as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Kivexa, a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) combination, is used in antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 infection.

- HIV-1 infection: provides viral suppression when combined with other antiretroviral agents.

Kivexa may cause a range of adverse reactions. Patients should be monitored for any new symptoms.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach. - Headache: transient cranial discomfort. - Fatigue: general tiredness. - Diarrhoea: loose stools. - Vomiting: occasional emesis. - Rash: mild skin erythema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Hypersensitivity reaction: potentially life‑threatening, especially with abacavir. - Severe liver toxicity: elevated transaminases or hepatic failure. - Lactic acidosis: rare metabolic disturbance. - Severe neutropenia: marked reduction in neutrophil count. - Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin and mucous membrane reaction. - Hepatomegaly with jaundice: liver enlargement with yellowing of skin.

Before initiating Kivexa, several safety considerations should be addressed. - HLA‑B*5701 screening: test for hypersensitivity risk before starting abacavir. - Liver function monitoring: assess hepatic enzymes regularly during therapy. - Renal function assessment: adjust lamivudine dose in patients with impaired kidney function. - Avoid in severe hepatic impairment: contraindicated in patients with advanced liver disease. - Pregnancy category B: use only if benefit outweighs potential risk. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Kivexa can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid reduced efficacy or increased toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Didanosine: concurrent use increases risk of pancreatitis. - Stavudine: combined use may heighten mitochondrial toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Alcohol: may exacerbate liver toxicity. - Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides): monitor renal function and adjust lamivudine dose. - Protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir): can affect plasma concentrations of both components. - Methadone: may require dose adjustment due to altered metabolism.