Adefovir

Adefovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection. It works by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis B virus, thereby reducing the viral load in the body and slowing the progression of the disease. It belongs to new class of antiviral drugs called nucleotide analogues.

Indications

HBe-Ag positive and negative chronic hepatitis B, Lamivudine resistant HBV-HIV co-infection, Lamivudine resistant pre-transplant & post-transplant hepatitis B with decompensated liver disease.

Dosage

The recommended dose of Adefovir for adults and adolescents (12 years and older) is 10 mg once daily, taken with or without food. The duration of treatment should be determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient’s condition and response to therapy.

Contra-Indications

-Known hypersensitivity to Adefovir or any of its components -Patients with pre-existing renal impairment should use Adefovir with caution and under strict medical supervision

Special Precautions

-Regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is necessary during treatment -Renal function should be monitored prior to and during treatment, especially in patients with risk factors for renal impairment -Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks -Patients should not discontinue therapy without consulting their healthcare provider as this may result in severe exacerbations of hepatitis

Side Effects

-Common side effects include headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea -Serious side effects may include nephrotoxicity, hepatomegaly with steatosis, and lactic acidosis -Patients should report any unusual symptoms or severe side effects to their healthcare provider immediately

Drug Interactions

-Caution should be taken when using Adefovir in combination with other nephrotoxic drugs -Potential interactions with other antiviral medications should be evaluated by a healthcare provider