What does ABC mean in DRUGS

Abacavir is an antiviral drug prescribed to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. It belongs to a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs).

Abacavir works by blocking the activity of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that HIV needs in order to replicate itself and spread throughout the body. By blocking the activity of this enzyme, abacavir helps reduce levels of HIV in people infected with the virus.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, dizziness and rash. More serious side effects can include allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, throat or tongue. If these symptoms occur while taking abacavir, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it can increase the risk of side effects. It is also important to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice which can interact with abacavir and increase the risk of side effects.

Abacavir decreases levels of HIV in the blood relatively quickly; however it may take several weeks before you start seeing noticeable improvements in your health due to the medication's effect on HIV-related symptoms and complications related to HIV infection.

Yes, some medications can interact with abacavir including certain antibiotics, antifungals and protease inhibitors used to treat HIV infection. To ensure safety when taking other medications it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before starting any new ones.

Yes, there are generic versions available for some brands of this drug including Ziagen® and Epivir®. Talk to your doctor about cost savings options available for generic versions of these drugs if they are right for you.

People who have had an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity reaction to any medicine containing abacavire should not take this medication due its increased risk for further allergic reactions or serious adverse reactions such as lactic acidosis or liver failure if taken again after a prior reaction has occurred. Additionally pregnant women should not take this medication unless reviewed by their healthcare provider first due its potential risks during pregnancy.

Regular lab testing may be recommended by your healthcare provider while using this medication depending on how long you are going use it for as well as other factors such as a person's age and overall health condition at the time treatment begins.