Epzicom and Ziagen

600 mg abacavir, 300 mg lamivudine ABC and 3TC (two NRTIs) / 300 mg abacavir ABC (NRTI)

Each is DHHS recommended as a component of initial regimen for most people when used in combination with dolutegravir and lamivudine (as Triumeq)
Nucleoside "Nuke"

Standard Dose

One Epzicom tablet once daily, with or without food. Two Ziagen tablets once daily (or one 300 mg tablet twice daily), with or without food. Both must be taken in combination with another antiretroviral(s) from a different drug class.

Epzicom is approved for adults and children weighing 55 pounds (25 kg) or more. Ziagen is for adults and children at least 3 months of age and older. In children Ziagen is dosed based on body weight. See package insert for weight-based dosing. Tablets may be crushed or split and added to a small amount of semi-solid food or liquid. Ziagen is also available as an oral solution (20 mg/mL) (strawberry-banana flavor) for children and adults who are not able to swallow the tablets.

Take missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is closer to the time of your next dose. Do not double up on your next dose. According to the drug label, Epzicom is not recommended for people with decreased kidney function (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min) due to lamivudine component, or those with moderate or severe liver impairment due to abacavir component. Alternative doses may be obtained by using the individual components of this medication as needed. Ziagen dose adjustment is not needed for people with kidney impairment. Dose adjustment is needed for people with mild liver impairment (200 mg twice daily). Ziagen should not be used in people with moderate or severe liver disease.
  • See Epivir.
  • See package insert for more complete information on potential side effects and interactions.
  • Generic is available.

Manufacturer

ViiV Healthcare
viivhealthcare.com; epzicom.com
(877) 844-8872

AWP

Epzicom:
$1,550.05/month

generic:
$1,395.05/month

Ziagen 300 mg, 60 tablets:
$670.37/month

generic: abacavir 300 mg, 60 tablets:
$602.71/month

Potential Side Effects and Toxicity

Potential Drug Interactions

More Information

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