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Abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine

Trizivir.JPG

Trizivir is a triple NRTIA type of anti-HIV drug that works by inhibiting a stage of the HIV life cycle called reverse transcription. Non-nucleosides work in a similar way, but are chemically different. combination tablet containing 150mg lamivudine (3TC), 300mg abacavir and 300mg zidovudine (AZT).

It is not recommended for initial therapy but is considered beneficial for treatment-experienced people because of improved adherence and short-term tolerance.

Trizivir is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and should only be used when the drug's benefits outweigh its risks. Abacavir can cause a severe hypersensitivity reaction.

Generic name: abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine
Pronunciation:TRY-zih-veer
Brand name:Trizivir
Also known as:AZT/3TC/abacavir
Drug class:triple NRTI
Pregnancy safe?Not suitable for use in pregnancy. If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, you should not take this treatment.
Availability in Australia:
  • Available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) through S100 prescribers.
  • This drug may be available through clinical trials in Australia.
  • You may be able to import this drug from overseas for your personal use.
Presentation:300mg/150mg/300mg tablet
What the treatment guidelines say:

The ASHM Australian HIV Treatment Guidelines note that any medication containing abacavir can cause a potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction. Symptoms of hypersensitivity may include fever, rash, nausea, vomiting, malaise or fatigue, loss of appetite, and/or respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, cough, shortness of breath. Abacavir may also cause a rare but potentially life-threatening toxicity called lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis.

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Like all anti-HIV drugs, abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine must be taken in combination with other drugs to be completely effective. Your doctor will advise you on the right combination of drugs to suit your circumstances.

Dosage

The normal adult dose is one (300mg/300mg/150mg) tablet twice a day.

Regardless of what you read on this website or elsewhere, you should always take your medications according to your doctor's instructions. If you're unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

With or without food?

Abacavir + lamivudine + zidovudine may be taken with or without food.

Side effects

All drugs can produce side effects in some people. These may be mild, moderate or severe, so you should be aware of potential side effects before starting any drug, and speak to your doctor if you experience side effects that concern you.

  • Common side effects may include nausea (upset stomach, feeling sick to the stomach), diarrhoea, vomiting, depression, dizziness, abdominal pain, constipation, muscle aches.
  • Less common side effects may include rash, blood disorders, muscle damage, neutropenia, hair loss.
  • Rare side effects may include serious hypersensitivity reaction which may be life-threatening, lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis.

    • It's unlikely you will experience all of these side effects, and you may not experience any side effects at all. Before starting any new drug, ask your doctor about side effects you might experience and discuss strategies for dealing with side effects if they do occur. If you experience any significant side effect you should continue taking your medicine and see your doctor as soon as possible.

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Getting spine: the nucleoside backbone

Positive Living article • Paul Kidd • 19 January 2006

Nucleoside analoguesA type of anti-HIV drug that works by inhibiting a stage of the HIV life cycle called reverse transcription. Non-nucleosides work in a similar way, but are chemically different. are the backbone of successful anti-HIV treatments. This article examines some of the issues involved in selecting the best nucleoside backbone. read more »

The table below shows all the clinical trials in the database with the keyword Trizivir.

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This Treatments database entry was first published on 28 May 2009 — more than one year ago.

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