Epivir is an antiviral drug used to control HIV or hepatitis B infection. It works by preventing the virus from multiplying, but will not cure HIV or hepatitis B.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and use Epivir exactly as prescribed.

• Take with or without food.

Before taking Epivir, inform your doctor if you have any of the following:

• Liver or kidney disease
• Pancreatitis
• Diabetes

Common side effects of Epivir include:

• Headache
• Diarrhea, nausea
• Fever, tiredness, or feeling unwell
• Infection in nose, throat, or ear

Contact your doctor if you experience these more serious side effects:

• Lactic acidosis – muscle pain, vomiting, dizziness, weakness or fatigue, trouble breathing, irregular heart rate
• Liver problems – jaundice, dark urine, upper abdominal pain, itching, fatigue, nausea, light-colored stools
• Pancreas problems – upper abdominal pain spreading to back, nausea and vomiting, increased heart rate

Can I stop taking Epivir if I’m feeling better?

Epivir does not cure HIV or hepatitis B, and should not be discontinued unless directed by your doctor. If you stop taking antiviral drugs your symptoms will return.

What if I have HIV and hepatitis B?

If you already take Epivir to treat HIV, do not take Epivir-HBV to treat hepatitis B.