title: Abacavir plus lamivudine: a review of their combined use in the management of HIV infection.
abstract: Abacavir and lamivudine (two nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors [NRTIs]), as separate formulations in combination with other antiretroviral agents, are effective in the reduction of HIV RNA levels in antiretroviral-naive patients with HIV infection, and are generally well tolerated. A fixed-dose combination tablet of abacavir/lamivudine (Epzicomtrade mark, Kivexatrade mark) has been developed for once-daily use and preliminary efficacy data are promising. Although further experience with this formulation is needed to fully determine its position in the management of HIV infection, a single, once-daily tablet that may be taken irrespective of food intake should aid adherence to treatment, a key factor in determining the success of an antiretroviral regimen. Thus, abacavir and lamivudine are two established components of first-line antiretroviral regimens for the management of HIV infection and the fixed-dose abacavir/lamivudine tablet has the potential to be an effective, easily adhered to and generally well tolerated component of first-line therapy.
authors.affiliation: Adis International Limited, 41 Centorian Drive, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 1311, New Zealand. demail@adis.co.nz
authors.forename: Toni M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Dando
authors.forename: Lesley J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Scott
mesh_terms: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015224:Dideoxynucleosides / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D019259:Lamivudine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000099227:Abacavir
chemical_list: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents; D015224:Dideoxynucleosides; D019259:Lamivudine; D000099227:Abacavir