Barcavir
Generic Name
Barcavir
Manufacturer
PharmaCorp Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| barcavir 1 mg tablet | ৳ 90.00 | ৳ 900.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Barcavir 1 mg Tablet is an antiviral medication used in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It works by inhibiting viral replication, thereby reducing liver damage.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The recommended dose for adults with chronic HBV infection is 1 mg once daily, taken orally with or without food.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, renal function should be monitored, and dose adjusted if necessary.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is required for patients with creatinine clearance <50 mL/min, including hemodialysis patients. Consult specific guidelines for dosage adjustments.
How to Take
Take the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet. It can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Barcavir is a nucleoside analog that inhibits the Hepatitis B virus reverse transcriptase enzyme. It gets incorporated into viral DNA, leading to chain termination and thus preventing viral DNA synthesis and replication.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Viral load reduction typically begins within 1-2 weeks of initiation of therapy.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with renal excretion accounting for approximately 70% of the administered dose.
Half life
Elimination half-life is approximately 24-30 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with an oral bioavailability of approximately 80%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 0.5-1.5 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized by the liver. It is not a substrate, inhibitor, or inducer of cytochrome P450 enzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Barcavir or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) without proper evaluation.
Drug Interactions
Other Antivirals
Caution is advised when co-administering with other antiviral drugs, particularly those with similar mechanisms or potential for overlapping toxicities.
Nephrotoxic Agents
Coadministration with nephrotoxic agents (e.g., aminoglycosides, NSAIDs) may increase the risk of renal dysfunction. Increased monitoring of renal function is recommended.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry and cool place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Limited experience with Barcavir overdose. In case of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Hemodialysis can remove approximately 13% of the Barcavir dose over a 4-hour period.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Barcavir should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Barcavir is excreted in human milk; however, other nucleoside analogs are. Therefore, caution should be exercised when Barcavir is administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Barcavir or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) without proper evaluation.
Drug Interactions
Other Antivirals
Caution is advised when co-administering with other antiviral drugs, particularly those with similar mechanisms or potential for overlapping toxicities.
Nephrotoxic Agents
Coadministration with nephrotoxic agents (e.g., aminoglycosides, NSAIDs) may increase the risk of renal dysfunction. Increased monitoring of renal function is recommended.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry and cool place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Limited experience with Barcavir overdose. In case of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Hemodialysis can remove approximately 13% of the Barcavir dose over a 4-hour period.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Barcavir should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Barcavir is excreted in human milk; however, other nucleoside analogs are. Therefore, caution should be exercised when Barcavir is administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
30 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA and DGDA
Patent Status
Patented
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Barcavir has undergone extensive Phase III clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in patients with chronic Hepatitis B. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) at regular intervals.
- Renal function tests (creatinine, eGFR) regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or those on concomitant nephrotoxic drugs.
- HBV DNA levels (viral load) to assess treatment response.
- Serum lactic acid levels if symptoms of lactic acidosis develop.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient adherence to therapy and regular follow-up to monitor HBV DNA levels, LFTs, and renal function.
- Educate patients about the risk of Hepatitis B exacerbation upon discontinuation and the importance of not stopping the drug abruptly.
- Consider bone mineral density monitoring for patients at risk of bone loss during long-term therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Barcavir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can lead to severe exacerbation of Hepatitis B.
- Attend all scheduled doctor appointments and laboratory tests to monitor your condition and detect potential side effects early.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
- Barcavir does not prevent the transmission of HBV to others. Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Barcavir generally has minimal to no effect on the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, exercise caution.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can worsen liver damage in patients with Hepatitis B.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Barcavir Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
