Adefovir

Chronic Hepatitis B

DRUG STATUS

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Approvals

N/A

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Essential Medicine

NO

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Teratogenicity

N/A

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Pharmaceutical Class

Hepatitis B Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor

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Drug Ingredient

Adefovir

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Summary

  • Adefovir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and children aged 12 years and older. It helps to manage the infection and improve liver function but it is not a cure for hepatitis B.

  • Adefovir is a nucleotide analog. It works by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis B virus, thereby decreasing the amount of virus in the body and helping to manage the infection and improve liver function.

  • The usual daily dose of Adefovir for adults and children aged 12 years and older is 10 mg taken once daily. It is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

  • Common side effects of Adefovir include weakness, headache, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, sore throat, runny nose, and rash. Serious adverse effects include kidney damage, lactic acidosis, and liver damage.

  • Important warnings for Adefovir include the risk of severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis after discontinuation, nephrotoxicity, HIV resistance, and lactic acidosis. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any of its components. Patients should be monitored closely for liver and kidney function during treatment.

Indications and Purpose

What is Adefovir used for?

Adefovir is indicated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and children aged 12 years and older. It is used to manage the infection and improve liver function, but it is not a cure for hepatitis B.

How does Adefovir work?

Adefovir is a nucleotide analog that works by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis B virus. It decreases the amount of virus in the body, helping to manage the infection and improve liver function.

Is Adefovir effective?

Adefovir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection by decreasing the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body. Clinical studies have shown histological, virological, biochemical, and serological responses in patients with chronic hepatitis B, indicating its effectiveness in managing the condition.

How does one know if Adefovir is working?

The benefit of Adefovir is evaluated through regular monitoring of liver function tests, viral load, and kidney function. Patients should keep all appointments with their doctor and the laboratory to ensure the medication is working effectively and to monitor for any adverse effects.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Adefovir?

The usual daily dose of Adefovir for adults and children aged 12 years and older is 10 mg, taken once daily. Adefovir is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

How do I take Adefovir?

Adefovir should be taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and not to take more or less than the prescribed dose.

For how long do I take Adefovir?

The optimal duration of treatment with Adefovir is unknown. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and continue the medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

How long does it take for Adefovir to start working?

The provided content does not specify how long it takes for Adefovir to start working. However, patients should continue taking the medication as prescribed and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor its effectiveness.

How should I store Adefovir?

Adefovir should be stored in its original container at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It should be kept away from excess heat and moisture, and out of reach of children. Do not use if the seal over the bottle opening is broken or missing.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Adefovir?

Important warnings for Adefovir include the risk of severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis after discontinuation, nephrotoxicity, HIV resistance, and lactic acidosis. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any of its components. Patients should be monitored closely for liver and kidney function during treatment.

Can I take Adefovir with other prescription drugs?

Significant drug interactions with Adefovir include medications that affect kidney function, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, NSAIDs, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and vancomycin. These can increase the risk of nephrotoxicity. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking.

Can I take Adefovir with vitamins or supplements?

The provided content does not mention specific interactions between Adefovir and vitamins or supplements. However, patients should inform their doctor of all supplements they are taking, as they may need to monitor for potential interactions or adjust dosages.

Can Adefovir be taken safely while pregnant?

Adefovir should not be taken during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as there is limited data on its safety in pregnant women. A pregnancy exposure registry is available to monitor outcomes. Women should inform their doctor if they become pregnant while taking Adefovir.

Can Adefovir be taken safely while breastfeeding?

It is not known whether Adefovir is present in human breast milk. Women should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their doctor before breastfeeding while taking Adefovir, as it may affect the breastfed infant.

Is Adefovir safe for the elderly?

The provided content does not include specific recommendations or warnings for the elderly. However, caution should be exercised when prescribing Adefovir to elderly patients, as they may have decreased renal or cardiac function. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Adefovir?

The provided content does not specifically mention any limitations on exercise while taking Adefovir. However, if you experience side effects like weakness or fatigue, it may affect your ability to exercise. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Adefovir?

The provided content does not specifically mention the effects of alcohol on the safety or effectiveness of Adefovir. However, since Adefovir is used to treat liver conditions, it is generally advisable to avoid alcohol as it can further damage the liver. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.