HIV infection, in combination with other antiretrovirals
Forms and strengths
150 mg tablet
50 mg/5 ml oral solution
Dosage
The daily dose is administered once daily or in 2 divided doses.
Child 1 month and over and adult:
Weight
Daily dose
50 mg/5 ml oral sol.
150 mg tablet
3 to < 6 kg
60 mg
3 ml x 2
–
6 to < 10 kg
80 mg
4 ml x 2
–
10 to < 14 kg
120 mg
6 ml x 2
–
14 to < 20 kg
150 mg
–
½ tab x 2 or 1 tab x 1
20 to < 25 kg
225 mg
–
½ tab morning and 1 tab evening or 1 ½ tab x 1
≥ 25 kg
300 mg
–
1 tab x 2
or 2 tab x 1
Duration
Depending on the efficacy and tolerance of lamivudine.
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
Administer with caution to patients with history of hepatic disorders.
May cause: gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting,etc.) and possibly:haematological disorders, especially when combined with zidovudine (neutropenia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia), myopathy, hepatic or pancreatic disorders.
Reduce dosage in patients with renal impairment.
Pregnancy: no contra-indication
Remarks
In neonates, the dosage of lamivudine 50 mg/5 ml (i.e. 10 mg/ml) solution is:
2 to < 3 kg: 0.5 ml 2 times daily (daily dose: 10 mg)
to < 4 kg: 0.8 ml 2 times daily (daily dose: 16 mg)
to < 5 kg: 1 ml 2 times daily (daily dose: 20 mg)
Lamivudine is also used for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, in combination with other antiretrovirals.
Also comes in fixed-dose combinations with other antiretrovirals. Preferably use these formulations when available.
Storage
Below 25 °C
Once opened, oral solution keeps for 30 days maximum.