Why is Ziagen prescribed?

Ziagen helps to halt the inroads of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Without treatment, HIV gradually undermines the body's immune system, encouraging other infections to take hold until the body succumbs to full-blown acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Like other anti-HIV drugs, Ziagen holds back the advance of the virus by disrupting its reproductive cycle. This medication is used only as part of a "drug cocktail" that attacks the virus on several fronts. It is not prescribed alone.

Special warnings about Ziagen (Abacavir)

Be alert for development of a skin rash, severe peeling skin, or two or more of the following sets of symptoms:

• Sore throat, shortness of breath, or cough
• Severe tiredness, achiness, or a generally ill feeling
• Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Fever

If these symptoms appear, stop taking Ziagen (Abacavir) and call your doctor immediately. You may be experiencing a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Once you've had such a reaction, never take Ziagen again. In fact, avoid Ziagen (Abacavir) permanently if there's even a possibility that you've had an allergic reaction. Additional doses could trigger a dangerous drop in blood pressure and other life-threatening symptoms.

Keep in mind, too, that a severe and even fatal allergic reaction is possible when you resume taking Ziagen (Abacavir) after an interruption in therapy--even if you've never experienced signs of an allergic reaction before. Resume Ziagen therapy only under your doctor's close supervision.

If you are overweight or have been taking HIV drugs similar to Ziagen (Epivir, Videx, or Hivid) for a long period of time, you are more likely to develop liver problems and a complication called lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the body). If you develop either of these conditions, your doctor will take you off of Ziagen (Abacavir).

Like other HIV drugs, breast enlargement, a "buffalo hump" of fat on the upper back, resulting in added weight around the waist, Ziagen (Abacavir) sometimes causes a redistribution of body fat, and wasting of the face, arms. It's not known why this occurs, or what long-term effects it might have.

Why should Ziagen (Abacavir) not be prescribed?

If the active ingredient abacavir (found in Ziagen (Abacavir) and Trizivir) gives you an allergic reaction, you must never take it again. If you've failed to get any benefit from HIV drugs that work the same way as Ziagen (Epivir, Videx, or Hivid), this drug probably won't work for you either. Make sure the doctor knows the results of all the drug treatments you've been given.

You will not be able to use Ziagen (Abacavir) if you have moderate-to-severe liver disease.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The recommended dose is 300 milligrams twice a day in combination with other anti-HIV drugs.

CHILDREN

The recommended dose for children and adolescents 3 months to 16 years of age is 8 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight twice a day in combination with other anti-HIV drugs. Do not exceed 300 milligrams twice a day.

DOSAGE ADJUSTMENT

Ziagen oral solution is recommended for people with mild liver problems. The usual dose is 10 milliliters (200 milligrams) twice a day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Ziagen (Abacavir), seek medical attention immediately.