Entecavir
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Hepatitis B Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
entecavir
Summary
Entecavir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection, which is a long-term viral infection affecting the liver. It helps reduce the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body, improving liver function and preventing liver damage.
Entecavir works by blocking the replication of the hepatitis B virus, which means it stops the virus from making more copies of itself. This action reduces the amount of virus in the blood, helping to improve liver function and prevent further liver damage.
The usual starting dose of Entecavir for adults is 0.5 mg taken once daily. For those with a history of hepatitis B virus resistance, the dose may be increased to 1 mg daily. It should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or after a meal.
Common side effects of Entecavir include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea, which are usually mild. These effects may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, consult your doctor.
Entecavir can cause lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood, and severe liver problems. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes. Seek medical help immediately if these occur. It's not recommended for those with severe kidney problems without dose adjustments.
Indications and Purpose
How does Entecavir work?
Entecavir works by blocking the replication of the hepatitis B virus in the body. It reduces the amount of virus in the blood, which helps improve liver function and prevent liver damage. Think of it like stopping a copy machine from making more copies. This action helps manage chronic hepatitis B infection and protect your liver health.
Is Entecavir effective?
Entecavir is effective in treating chronic hepatitis B infection. It works by reducing the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body, which helps improve liver function. Clinical studies show that Entecavir significantly reduces viral load and improves liver health in patients with hepatitis B. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to ensure the medication is working effectively.
What is Entecavir?
Entecavir is an antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection. It works by reducing the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body, which helps improve liver function. Entecavir is usually used as a long-term treatment to manage hepatitis B and prevent liver damage. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking this medication.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Entecavir?
Entecavir is usually a long-term medication for managing chronic hepatitis B infection. You'll typically take Entecavir every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Entecavir treatment.
How do I dispose of Entecavir?
If you can, bring unused Entecavir to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Entecavir?
Take Entecavir on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or after a meal. It's usually taken once daily. Do not crush or chew the tablet. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for Entecavir to start working?
Entecavir begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several months to see significant improvements in liver function and viral load. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to ensure the medication is working effectively. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Entecavir?
Store Entecavir at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture could affect how well the medication works. Always store Entecavir out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Entecavir?
The usual starting dose of Entecavir for adults is 0.5 mg once daily. For patients with a history of hepatitis B virus resistance, the dose may be increased to 1 mg daily. Dose adjustments may be needed for patients with kidney problems. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Entecavir be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Entecavir while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if this medication passes into human breast milk. If you're taking Entecavir and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
Can Entecavir be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Entecavir during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited data suggest potential risks to the unborn baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your hepatitis B infection. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take Entecavir with other prescription drugs?
Entecavir has no major drug interactions, but always inform your doctor about all the medicines you take. This helps prevent potential interactions and ensures your treatment is safe and effective. Your doctor can help you manage any interactions that might affect your treatment.
Does Entecavir have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Entecavir include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are usually mild. Serious adverse effects, like lactic acidosis and liver problems, are rare but require immediate medical attention. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Entecavir.
Does Entecavir have any safety warnings?
Entecavir has important safety warnings. It can cause lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood, and severe liver problems. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to manage these risks.
Is Entecavir addictive?
Entecavir is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by reducing the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body and doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is Entecavir safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more vulnerable to side effects of Entecavir, such as dizziness or fatigue. Regular monitoring by a doctor is important to manage these risks. Dose adjustments may be needed for elderly patients with kidney problems. Always consult your doctor about any concerns, especially if you have other health conditions that might affect your treatment.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Entecavir?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Entecavir. Alcohol can worsen liver problems, which is a concern for people with hepatitis B. Drinking alcohol may also increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or nausea. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Entecavir to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Entecavir?
You can exercise while taking Entecavir, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause dizziness or fatigue, which might affect your exercise capacity. To exercise safely, listen to your body and rest if you feel tired or dizzy. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking Entecavir, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop Entecavir?
Stopping Entecavir suddenly can cause your hepatitis B infection to worsen. This may lead to serious liver problems. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Entecavir. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
What are the most common side effects of Entecavir?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Entecavir include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you notice new symptoms after starting Entecavir, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Entecavir?
Do not take Entecavir if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical help. Entecavir is not recommended for patients with severe kidney problems without dose adjustments. Always consult your doctor about any concerns, especially if you have other health conditions that might affect your treatment.
Forms / Brands
