Abac
Generic Name
Abacavir sulfate
Manufacturer
Generic Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| abac 125 mg pediatric drop | ৳ 65.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Abacavir is an antiviral medication used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. It belongs to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and works by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for HIV replication. This pediatric drop formulation is specifically designed for children.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Refer to adult formulations (e.g., tablets). Pediatric drop is not intended for adults.
Elderly
Not applicable for this pediatric formulation.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. Data for severe impairment is limited; consult guidelines for specific cases.
How to Take
Administer orally, usually using a calibrated oral syringe or dropper to ensure accurate dosing for pediatric patients. Can be taken with or without food. Ensure the full prescribed dose is taken.
Mechanism of Action
Abacavir is a carbocyclic synthetic nucleoside analogue. It is intracellularly phosphorylated to its active metabolite, carbovir triphosphate. Carbovir triphosphate inhibits HIV-1 reverse transcriptase by competing with the natural substrate deoxyguanosine-5'-triphosphate and by incorporating into viral DNA, resulting in chain termination. This prevents further replication of the viral DNA.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not specified, but antiviral effects typically seen within weeks of initiating therapy.
Excretion
Mainly excreted renally as inactive metabolites (approximately 81%) and a small amount in feces (16%). Less than 2% is excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 1.5 hours. Intracellular half-life of carbovir triphosphate is longer (approx. 12-14 hours).
Absorption
Rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration, with absolute bioavailability of about 83%. Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized by alcohol dehydrogenase and glucuronyl transferase to inactive metabolites. Renal excretion of unchanged abacavir is minor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to abacavir or any component of the formulation.
- Patients positive for HLA-B*5701 allele due to high risk of hypersensitivity reaction (severe, potentially fatal).
- Severe hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
Ethanol
Ethanol decreases the elimination of abacavir, resulting in increased abacavir exposure. Coadministration is not recommended.
Methadone
Abacavir may decrease methadone plasma concentrations, requiring dosage adjustment for methadone.
Ribavirin
Ribavirin may reduce the phosphorylation of abacavir, potentially reducing its antiviral activity. Coadministration should be monitored.
Storage
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Do not freeze. Keep bottle tightly closed. Protect from light.
Overdose
Limited experience with abacavir overdose. No specific antidote available. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic, with monitoring of vital signs and clinical status.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Registry data suggests no increased risk of major birth defects with abacavir exposure during pregnancy. Use during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Abacavir is excreted into breast milk. HIV-infected mothers should not breastfeed to avoid transmitting HIV to the infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to abacavir or any component of the formulation.
- Patients positive for HLA-B*5701 allele due to high risk of hypersensitivity reaction (severe, potentially fatal).
- Severe hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
Ethanol
Ethanol decreases the elimination of abacavir, resulting in increased abacavir exposure. Coadministration is not recommended.
Methadone
Abacavir may decrease methadone plasma concentrations, requiring dosage adjustment for methadone.
Ribavirin
Ribavirin may reduce the phosphorylation of abacavir, potentially reducing its antiviral activity. Coadministration should be monitored.
Storage
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Do not freeze. Keep bottle tightly closed. Protect from light.
Overdose
Limited experience with abacavir overdose. No specific antidote available. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic, with monitoring of vital signs and clinical status.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Registry data suggests no increased risk of major birth defects with abacavir exposure during pregnancy. Use during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Abacavir is excreted into breast milk. HIV-infected mothers should not breastfeed to avoid transmitting HIV to the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date, or as specified on the packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy and safety in HIV-infected adults and pediatric patients, both as monotherapy (historically) and in combination regimens, leading to its approval for HIV treatment.
Lab Monitoring
- Before starting abacavir, test for HLA-B*5701 allele.
- Regular monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs).
- Regular monitoring of renal function.
- CD4+ cell counts and HIV viral load monitoring to assess treatment efficacy.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize HLA-B*5701 screening for all patients before initiation.
- Educate patients and caregivers on the signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reaction and the need for immediate discontinuation.
- Always use in combination with other antiretroviral agents.
- Regular monitoring of viral load, CD4 counts, LFTs, and renal function is essential.
Patient Guidelines
- Always take abacavir exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking abacavir without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to drug resistance and worsening of HIV.
- Be aware of the symptoms of hypersensitivity reaction (fever, rash, stomach upset, feeling tired, aches and pains) and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
- If you are HLA-B*5701 positive, you must not take abacavir.
- Use a calibrated measuring device for accurate dosing, especially for children.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you miss multiple doses, consult your doctor immediately.
Driving Precautions
Abacavir may cause dizziness or fatigue in some patients. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Adhere strictly to your antiretroviral regimen.
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Practice safe sex to prevent HIV transmission.
- Regular exercise as advised by your healthcare provider.
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