Filter By Category
Archives
Share on -
ADEFOVIR
Generic Name: ADEFOVIR
ABSTRACT -
Adefovir is a nucleotide analogue antiviral. Clinically, it has been used as the oral prodrug adefovir dipivoxil for chronic hepatitis B virus infection. After conversion to adefovir diphosphate, it inhibits HBV DNA polymerase/reverse transcriptase by competing with deoxyadenosine triphosphate and causing viral DNA chain termination. Use has declined in many settings because newer HBV antivirals are often preferred, but it remains important in drug-information references.
DOSAGE -
Adefovir dipivoxil should be used only under the supervision of a clinician experienced in chronic hepatitis B management.
- A commonly used adult dose for chronic hepatitis B is adefovir dipivoxil 10 mg orally once daily.
- Dose interval adjustment is required in renal impairment according to creatinine clearance.
- Renal function and liver function should be monitored before and during therapy.
- Stopping therapy may lead to severe acute exacerbation of hepatitis B; discontinuation requires close follow-up.
SIDE EFFECTS–
Reported or potential side effects may include:
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia
- Flatulence
- Increased liver enzymes
- Increased serum creatinine
- Hypophosphatemia
- Renal tubular dysfunction
- Worsening hepatitis after stopping treatment
- Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, rare but serious
- Rash
- Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions
ALLRGIC REACTIONS–
(These symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction to the drug.)
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Severe dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest tightness
- Anaphylaxis
- Severe hypersensitivity reactions
DRUG INTERACTIONS–
Adefovir can affect renal function and should be used cautiously with:
- Nephrotoxic medicines such as aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, vancomycin, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, cidofovir, tenofovir, or NSAID overuse
- Other antivirals or nucleotide analogues affecting kidney function
- Medicines eliminated by active renal tubular secretion
- Alcohol or hepatotoxic medicines in patients with liver disease
- Patients should inform healthcare providers about all prescription medicines, non-prescription medicines, herbal products, and supplements being used.
PREAUTIONS–
- Check baseline renal function and adjust dosing interval in renal impairment.
- Monitor serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, serum phosphorus, and urine findings when clinically indicated.
- Monitor hepatic function for several months after stopping therapy because hepatitis flares may occur.
- Test for HIV when appropriate before treatment, because adefovir activity against HIV at higher doses may contribute to resistance if unrecognized HIV is present.
- Use caution in decompensated liver disease and in patients receiving nephrotoxic medicines.
- Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only as directed by a physician.
WARNINGS –
- Nephrotoxicity can occur, especially with renal impairment, prolonged therapy, or nephrotoxic concomitant medicines.
- Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B have been reported after discontinuation.
- Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis have been reported with nucleoside/nucleotide analogues.
- Reduced urination, swelling, bone pain, severe weakness, jaundice, dark urine, or worsening abdominal symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- In case of overdose or severe adverse reaction, seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Share on -
. Developed by