Epivir solution is an antiviral medicine that prevents the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B virus from multiplying in your body.

HIV is the virus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Epivir solution treats HIV in adults and children at least three months old. Lamivudine is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.

Epivir-HBV treats hepatitis B in adults and children at least two years old. 

Read and follow the instructions carefully. Take the Epivir solution exactly as directed by your doctor. 

It is important to take Epivir as part of a combination regimen. Take all of the medicines your doctor prescribed at the right time of day. It will make your medicines work better. If you are using the oral liquid, use a specially marked measuring spoon, dosing syringe, or medicine cup to measure each dose accurately. 

Keep using Epivir for the full time of treatment, even if you or your child begin to feel better. Please only stop using it after checking first with your doctor. When your medicine supply is running low, contact your doctor or pharmacist. 

Do not use an Epivir solution if you or your child is also taking zalcitabine or medicines containing emtricitabine or lamivudine. Tell your doctor right away if you are using any of these medicines.

Lactic acidosis and liver toxicity, including an enlarged liver, are two rare but serious reactions to this medicine. These are more common if you are female, very overweight, or have been taking anti-HIV medicines for a long time.

Your immune system may get stronger when you start using Epivir. 

HIV or hepatitis B may be acquired from or spread to others through infected body fluids, including blood, vaginal fluid, or semen. Epivir solution does not decrease the risk of transmitting HIV or hepatitis B infection to others through sexual contact or by contamination through blood. If you are infected, it is best to avoid any sexual activity involving an exchange of body fluids with other people. If you have sex, always wear a condom. Only use condoms made of latex or polyurethane, and use them every time you have contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood. Also, do not reuse or share needles or equipment with anyone. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Mild symptoms of lactic acidosis may worsen over time, which can be fatal. Get emergency medical help if you have: unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, vomiting, irregular heart rate, dizziness, cold, or are very weak or tired.

Epivir solution affects your immune system, which may cause certain side effects. Tell your doctor if you have the following:

• Signs of a new infection - fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, weight loss;
• Trouble speaking or swallowing, problems with balance or eye movement, weakness or prickly feeling; or
• Swelling in your neck or throat, menstrual changes, impotence.

Common Epivir solution side effects may include:

• nausea, diarrhea;
• headache;
• fever, tiredness, general ill feeling;
• ear infection - ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fussiness in a child; or
• nose or throat infection - stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough.

These are not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur.

Does the Epivir solution strengthen your immune system?

Although the Epivir solution does not cure HIV or AIDS, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. Your immune system may get stronger when you start using Epivir. 

What should you do if you forget a dose of Epivir solution?

Take the missed dose of Epivir solution as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.

What should you avoid while on the Epivir solution?

Avoid taking other medications that contain an ingredient called sorbitol, often used as a sweetener in liquid medicines.

Do not have unprotected sex or share razors or toothbrushes.