Indicated for: HIV-1 infection
Substance: abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine (nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors)
ATC: J05AR04 (Antiinfectives for systemic use | Direct acting antivirals | Antivirals for treatment of HIV infections, combinations)
Abacavir, lamivudine, and zidovudine are antiretroviral medications used in combination for the treatment of HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. All three belong to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and work by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for HIV replication.
This combination is used as part of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to reduce viral load, increase CD4 cell count, and slow disease progression. It is an effective treatment regimen but requires strict adherence to the prescribed schedule to prevent the development of viral resistance.
Side effects may include nausea, fatigue, anemia, headaches, or, more rarely, hypersensitivity reactions to abacavir, which can be severe and require immediate discontinuation of treatment. Zidovudine may cause anemia or neutropenia, so regular monitoring of blood parameters is essential. Genetic testing for the HLA-B*5701 allele is recommended before starting therapy, as its presence is associated with an increased risk of allergic reactions to abacavir.
This combination is effective in managing HIV infection but does not cure the disease. Patients must adhere to long-term treatment and maintain regular health monitoring.