What it means
A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI): it stops the virus from copying its genetic code. For HIV it is always part of a combination regimen, often in a combined tablet. A lower-dose form (Epivir-HBV) treats chronic hepatitis B. It is usually well tolerated; headache, nausea and tiredness are common.
For the nurse
Teach the client not to skip doses or stop it on their own: in clients with hepatitis B, stopping can cause a severe flare of liver disease. The hepatitis B form is not a strong enough dose to treat HIV, so clients are tested for HIV before starting it.
At a glance
| Drug class | antiretroviral (nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, NRTI) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Epivir, Epivir-HBV |
| Abbreviations | 3TC |
| Spanish | lamivudina |
Related terms
immunodeficiency
A state in which the immune system is weaker than normal and cannot fight infection well.
hepatitis B
A liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus.