What is Cimduo?
Cimduo is a combination drug of lamivudine and tenofovir. Lamivudine and Tenofovir are antiviral medications that prevent HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses) from multiplying within your body. Cimduo can be used to treat HIV. HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Cimduo does not cure HIV or AIDS. Cimduo can be used on adults and children weighing at least 77 lbs.
Warnings
Cimduo may cause serious side effects. If you experience symptoms like upper stomach pains, loss of appetite or dark urine, yellowing skin or eyes, or bone pains, call your doctor immediately. Lactic acidosis is a dangerous buildup of lactic acids in your blood. If you experience unusual muscle pains, difficulty breathing, stomach pains, nausea, or feel cold or very tired, call your doctor. Cimduo may cause your hepatitis C to become active or worsen if you have ever had it. You may require frequent liver function testing for several months.
Before you take this drug
Cimduo should not be used if you have an allergy to lamivudine and tenofovir.
Inform your doctor immediately of any of the following conditions:
- Liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis B, and C (especially if also using ribavirin or interferon beta);
- Kidney disease (or dialysis if you have it);
- A pancreas disorder;
- Bone problems include osteoporosis and broken bones.
Lactic acidosis is a potentially dangerous condition that occurs when lactic acids build up in the blood. It may be more common if there are other medical conditions or if you have taken HIV medication for a long time. Consult a medical provider in order to assess your risks. Use your medication properly to control infections. HIV can be transmitted to your child if you do not control the virus during pregnancy. You may have your name listed in a registry that tracks the effects of antiviral medicines on a baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended for women with HIV/AIDS. Even if the baby was born HIV-free, the virus can be transmitted to the infant through your breast milk.
How to take Cimduo?
Follow your doctor's instructions and take Cimduo only as directed. Read all the instructions and directions that come with your prescription. Follow the directions on the label. You will be tested for conditions by your doctor to ensure that you are safe before you use this medication. Cimduo can be taken with or without food. You may need to undergo frequent medical tests. You may need to have your kidney and liver functions checked. The dose of Lamivudine or Tenofovir is based on the weight of the child. If your child gains or loses weight, the dose requirements may change. Read all the instructions and medication guides that you receive. Do not alter your dosage or schedule without first consulting with your physician. Each person living with HIV should be under the care and supervision of a physician. Cimduo should be stored in its original container at room temperature and away from moisture. Cimduo may make your hepatitis B virus active or worsen in the months following its discontinuation. You may require frequent liver function testing while taking this medication and for a few months afterward.
Details on dosage
Adult dose of Cimduo used for HIV infection:
Take 1 tablet once daily, orally.
Use: As a combination with other antiretroviral drugs for HIV-1 infection.
The usual paediatric dose of Cimduo to treat HIV infection is:
If you weigh at least 35 kg, take 1 tablet once daily.
Use: As a combination with other antiretroviral drugs for HIV-1 infection.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once. Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Avoid taking any other medicines that contain the ingredient sorbitol. This is often used to sweeten liquid medications. If you're not sure whether a medication contains this ingredient, ask your pharmacist. This medicine does not stop the spread of your illness. Share razors and toothbrushes. Speak to your doctor about the best ways to prevent HIV from being transmitted during sex. Even healthy people should never share syringes for drugs or medicines.
Side effects of Cimduo
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; swelling in your throat, face, lips, and/or tongue; or hives, seek emergency medical attention.
If you experience:
- New or worsening pain in the bones
- Muscle weakness
- You may experience pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
- Swelling around your midsection;
- Kidney disease: little or no urine; swelling of the feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath.
- Signs and symptoms of liver or pancreas issues: loss of appetite; upper stomach pain that may extend to the back. Nausea, or vomiting.
Cimduo can affect your immune system and cause side effects. These may occur even weeks or months after taking this medication. You should tell your doctor if:
- Signs of an infection: fever, sweats at night, swollen lymph glands, Cold sores (coughing and wheezing); diarrhoea; weight loss
- If you have difficulty speaking or swallowing, have problems with balance, eye movements, or weakness, or feel prickly, then it could be a sign of a problem.
- Impotence, menstrual changes, swelling of the neck or throat (enlarged thyroid)
Cimduo may cause side effects such as:
- Headache;
- Pain;
- Diarrhoea;
- Rash;
- Is a depressive
- Changes in the shape or location (especially of your arms, legs, and breasts), as well as changes in the amount or distribution of body fat.
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report them.
Interaction with other drug
Cimduo may harm your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, infection, osteoporosis transplant rejection, bowel disorders, or pain (including Motrin and Alave). Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, including antivirals for HIV or Hepatitis C. Lamivudine, tenofovir, and other drugs can interact, including vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
