What is Hepsera?
Hepsera, an antiviral medication, is used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B among adults and children aged at least 12 years. This medicine does not cure chronic hepatitis B.Hepsera can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Hepsera
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling in lips, face, tongue or throat. Please seek medical assistance immediately.The mild symptoms of lactic acidosis can worsen over time. This condition is fatal. If you experience: unusual muscular pain; difficulty breathing; stomach pain; nausea or dizziness
Hepsera may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- If you have kidney problems, it could be that your urine is not as frequent or that you are experiencing swelling of the feet or ankles or feeling tired.
- Liver problems: nausea; stomach pain (upper-right side); dark urine; jaundice.
Hepsera side effects may include:
- Stomach pain, nausea;
- A weakness
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA in regards to side effects can be done at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Hepsera may require an HIV test before it can be taken. You should tell your doctor if HIV has been exposed or if AIDS or HIV0_ is untreated.If you experience liver symptoms, such as upper right stomach pain, nausea or loss of appetite, or dark urine or yellowing skin or eyes, call your doctor immediately.Hepsera may harm your kidneys if you have already developed kidney problems or are taking certain medications.You could develop lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in your blood. If you experience unusual muscle pains, difficulty breathing, stomach pains, dizziness, or feel cold or very tired, call your doctor.Hepatitis B can become active or worsen after stopping Hepsera. You may require frequent liver function testing for several months.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to Hepsera, then it is best not to take the medication.Hepsera should not be taken if you are also taking tenofovir-containing medicines (Atripla Biktarvy Cim Duo Complera Delstrigo Descovy Genvoya Stribild Symfi Truvada Viread or Viread).Inform your doctor of any kidney problems or dialysis.Tell your doctor if HIV has been exposed or if it is untreated. HIV infection can become resistant to standard HIV and AIDS medication if you take medicines to treat chronic hepatitis B. It may be necessary to test for HIV before taking Hepsera.You can develop lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous accumulation of lactic acids in your blood. You may be at greater risk if, among other things, you suffer from another medical condition, have taken antiviral medications for a prolonged period of time, or are female. Consult your doctor to determine your risk.Inform your doctor immediately if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.You may have your name listed in a registry if you are pregnant to monitor the effects of adefovir.Hepsera should not be used by anyone under the age of 12.
How to take Hepsera?
Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label.Take your medicine every day at the same time, with or without eating.Hepsera should not be stopped or changed without consulting your doctor.Medical tests will be required frequently.Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the tablets and the moisture-absorbing preservative in the original containers.Hepatitis B can become active or worsen in the months following your last dose of Hepsera. You may require frequent liver function testing while taking this medication and for several weeks after your last dose.
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?
Contact the National Poison Information Centre, 1-800-222-1222, for poison assistance or immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Hepsera does not stop the spread of your disease. Share razors and toothbrushes. Speak to your doctor about the best ways to avoid transmission during sex. Even healthy people should never share syringes or needles.
Interaction with other drug
Hepsera may harm your kidneys if you are also taking certain medications for cancer, infection, osteoporosis, or organ rejection. Other drugs that can cause kidney damage include Advil, Motrin, and Aleve.Hepsera may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.
