Entecavir
Entecavir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Entecavir is a brand name. Its generic name is Entecavir.
Introduction
Entecavir is a medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It is classified as a nucleoside analog, which means it works to block the activity of the HBV virus and slow its replication in the body. This helps reduce the risk of developing liver damage and complications associated with the virus.
Uses
The main use for Entecavir is to treat chronic hepatitis B virus infection in adults. It can also be used in some cases to prevent progression of the virus to more serious stages of liver disease.
Mechanism of Action
Entecavir works by blocking the activity of the HBV virus and slowing its replication in the body. The drug works by preventing the replication of the genetic material of the virus and stopping it from spreading. It also helps to reduce liver inflammation and damage that can be caused by the virus.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
It typically takes several weeks or months of treatment with Entecavir before you begin to see significant results. In some cases, it may take up to a year before the virus is brought under control and your liver health improves. It's important to be compliant with your doctor's instructions and follow the prescribed treatment regimen to maximise the chances of success.
Absorption
Entecavir is well absorbed into the body after an oral dose. The maximum concentration of the drug in the bloodstream is usually reached within an hour.
Route of Elimination
Entecavir is eliminated mainly through the kidneys and is excreted in urine. Some of the drug is also eliminated in feces.
Dosage
The recommended adult dose of entecavir is 0.5 to 1 mg once daily. The initial dose is often 0.5 mg, and the dose may be increased to 1 mg if necessary. Your doctor may adjust the dose according to your response to treatment.
Administration
Entecavir is taken orally once a day. You should take the medication with food or after a meal. It is important to take your dose at the same time each day for best results.
Side Effect
Common side effects of Entecavir include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. More serious side effects may include an allergic reaction, changes in liver enzyme levels, and changes in blood cell counts.
Toxicity
Entecavir is generally safe and well-tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. There is no known risk of significant toxicity at the recommended dose.
Precaution
Before taking Entecavir, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, including liver problems, kidney problems, or immune system disorders. You should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Interaction
Entecavir may interact with other medications, such as aminoglycosides, clarithromycin, imatinib, and ritonavir. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting Entecavir.
Disease Interaction
People with certain liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, or those with HIV or other underlying conditions should discuss the use of Entecavir with their doctor before starting treatment.
Drug Interaction
Entecavir may interact with certain other drugs and medications. Before taking Entecavir, tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Food Interaction
There are no known food interactions associated with Entecavir. However, you should still take the medication with food or after a meal.
Pregnancy Use
Entecavir is not recommended for use during pregnancy. The potential risks of treatment with the drug should be discussed with a doctor before beginning treatment.
Lactation Use
Entecavir should not be used during breastfeeding. The potential risks of treatment with the drug should be discussed with a doctor before beginning treatment.
Acute Overdose
There is no known antidote for Entecavir overdose. Treatment should include supportive care and measures to reduce the absorption of the drug. Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Contraindication
Entecavir is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity or known allergy to entecavir or any of its inactive ingredients.
Use Direction
Entecavir should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use the medication regularly and take it exactly as directed in order to get the most benefit from treatment.
Storage Condition
Store Entecavir at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and away from pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Entecavir is approximately 40 liters.
Half-Life
The half-life of Entecavir is 12 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Entecavir is approximately 90 mL/min.
Here you find in details version of Entecavir
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Entecavir
What is Entecavir?
Entecavir is a prescription medicine used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) in adults and children 2 years of age and older. Entecavir is not a cure for hepatitis B.
Does Entecavir cure hepatitis B?
No, Entecavir is not a cure for hepatitis B. Entecavir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and children 2 years of age and older.
How does Entecavir work?
Entecavir is an antiviral medication that works by blocking an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which prevents the virus from multiplying and infecting new cells.
What form(s) does Entecavir come in?
Entecavir is available as a tablet and an oral solution. The tablet is available in 0.5 mg and 1 mg. The oral solution is available in 0.2 mg/mL.
Are there any warnings or precautions associated with the use of Entecavir?
Yes. Entecavir should not be used by anyone who is allergic to the medication or any of its ingredients. Entecavir should not be used in combination with lamivudine as this may lead to resistance to the medication. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking prior to starting Entecavir.
Are there any side effects associated with Entecavir?
Yes. The most common side effects associated with Entecavir include nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, patients may experience severe side effects such as a skin rash, hives, itching, anxiety, jaundice, anemia, and an electrolyte imbalance.
How should Entecavir be taken?
Entecavir should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. A single dose should be taken each day with or without food. Do not stop taking Entecavir without consulting your doctor as this may result in a relapse of the infection.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Entecavir?
If you miss a dose of Entecavir, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
Can I take Entecavir while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Entecavir should not be used by pregnant women or women breastfeeding. It is not known if Entecavir passes into breast milk, so caution should be taken when nursing.
How should I store Entecavir?
Entecavir should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I overdose on Entecavir?
If you or someone you know overdoses on Entecavir, contact your local poison control center or emergency room right away. Symptoms of an Entecavir overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and confusion.
Who should not take Entecavir?
Entecavir should not be taken by people who are allergic to the medication or any of its ingredients. Entecavir should also not be taken by people with kidney or liver disease, recent bone marrow transplants, or people who are taking certain other medications.
What other drugs interact with Entecavir?
Entecavir can interact with many other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid interactions. Examples of medications that could interact with Entecavir include acyclovir, valacyclovir, and ganciclovir.
Does Entecavir reduce the risk of transmitting hepatitis B?
Yes. Entecavir can reduce the risk of transmitting hepatitis B to others. However, you should still take precautionary measures to avoid spreading the infection such as avoiding unprotected sexual contact and not sharing needles.
How long does it take for Entecavir to work?
It typically takes two to three months of regular Entecavir use for it to be effective. You may not see any improvement in symptoms or lab results until then.
Is Entecavir available as a generic drug?
No, Entecavir is not available as a generic drug. It is a brand-name medication.
What is the cost of Entecavir?
The cost of Entecavir will vary depending on dosage and form, as well as insurance coverage. It is best to contact your insurance provider for an accurate price estimate.
Is Entecavir safe for children?
Yes, Entecavir is approved for use in children 2 years of age and older. Your doctor will determine if Entecavir is safe and effective for your child.
Does Entecavir interact with alcohol?
No, Entecavir does not interact with alcohol. However, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Entecavir as it can worsen the symptoms of hepatitis B.
Are there any foods I should avoid while taking Entecavir?
No, there are no specific foods you should avoid while taking Entecavir. However, it is generally recommended to follow a healthy and balanced diet while taking Entecavir.
Can I take other medications while taking Entecavir?
You should talk to your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking prior to starting Entecavir to avoid drug interactions. Some medications may interact with Entecavir and should not be taken together.
Can I take Entecavir with birth control?
Yes, Entecavir can be taken with birth control. However, you should still talk to your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
Does Entecavir cause weight gain?
No, Entecavir has not been shown to cause weight gain. However, some people may experience an increase in appetite while taking Entecavir, leading to weight gain.
Does Entecavir cause diarrhea?
Yes, diarrhea can be a side effect of Entecavir. Other potential side effects of Entecavir include nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Entecavir?
If you experience any side effects while taking Entecavir, you should contact your doctor right away. If the side effects are severe or persistent, your doctor may adjust the dosage or recommend a different medication.
Can I take Entecavir with other antiviral medications?
No, Entecavir should not be taken in combination with other antiviral medications due to the risk of drug interactions and potential resistance to the medication. You should talk to your doctor before starting any new medication while taking Entecavir.
Can Entecavir be taken with ibuprofen?
Yes, it is generally safe to take ibuprofen with Entecavir. However, you should talk to your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
Does Entecavir affect the liver?
Entecavir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection, and can help improve liver function. However, in rare cases, Entecavir can cause liver inflammation and damage, so it's important to follow your doctor's instructions for use.
Can I take vitamins and supplements while taking Entecavir?
You should talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements while taking Entecavir. Some vitamins or supplements may interact with the medication or reduce its effectiveness. Your doctor can recommend the best vitamins and supplements for you.
What laboratory tests should be done while taking Entecavir?
Your doctor may recommend regular blood work and other laboratory tests while taking Entecavir. These tests can help your doctor monitor your liver function and check for any drug interactions or side effects.
Does Entecavir cause hair loss?
No, hair loss is not a common side effect of Entecavir. If you experience sudden or unusual hair loss while taking Entecavir, you should consult your doctor.
Is Entecavir covered by insurance?
It depends on your insurance plan. You should contact your insurance provider to find out if Entecavir is covered by your plan and to determine what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
What are the possible complications of taking Entecavir?
The possible complications of using Entecavir include drug interactions, viral resistance, liver damage, and kidney damage. You should always follow the instructions of your doctor when taking Entecavir.
What happens if I stop taking Entecavir?
If you stop taking Entecavir without consulting your doctor, you may experience a relapse of your hepatitis B infection. Your doctor may recommend a gradual decrease in dosage or a different medication to help with the transition.
Can Entecavir be used to treat other viral infections?
No, Entecavir is specifically used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection. It is not effective for treating other viral infections.
What is the success rate of Entecavir?
The success rate of Entecavir varies depending on the individual and their condition. Generally, Entecavir is effective in treating chronic hepatitis B infection in 80-90% of cases.
Can Entecavir be used to treat acute hepatitis B?
No, Entecavir should not be used to treat acute hepatitis B infection. Generally, it is only used to treat chronic hepatitis B infections.
Does Entecavir need to be taken for life?
It depends on the individual and their condition. Generally, Entecavir needs to be taken for at least 6 months after the level of the virus in the bloodstream is undetectable. Your doctor will determine how long you need to take the medication.
Are there any dietary restrictions that need to be followed while taking Entecavir?
No, there are no specific dietary restrictions that need to be followed while taking Entecavir. However, it is generally recommended to follow a healthy and balanced diet while taking the medication.