Indications 

Ziagen is a prescribed medication utilized alongside other antiretroviral agents for the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. 

As nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor NRTI, Ziagen functions by reducing the HIV levels in the body, thereby enhancing the immune system’s efficiency, and reducing the risk of HIV-related complications, including new infections and cancer. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Ziagen and with every prescription refill, thoroughly review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. 

Ziagen dosage is individualized according to the patient’s medical condition and treatment response, with weight considered in pediatric cases. 

Typically, Ziagen is taken once or twice daily as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake.  

For optimal results, take this medication at evenly spaced intervals, consistently at the same times each day. 

Strictly follow your doctor’s prescription for taking Ziagen (as well as other HIV medications). Do not miss any doses, alter your dosage, or discontinue treatment without consulting your doctor, as doing so may lead to increased viral levels, treatment resistance, or worsening of side effects. 

Refill your prescription before it runs out entirely. Missing multiple doses of Ziagen can lead to a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction when you resume treatment. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Ziagen. Promptly notify your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Fatigue 
• Insomnia or unusual dreams 
• Headache, fatigue, fever, chills, or a general sense of unwellness 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Skin rash 
• In children: Stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, or ear pain 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or appetite loss 
• Swelling around the midsection 
• Dark urine, pale stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Unusual fatigue 
• Chest pain or pressure, with radiation to the jaw or shoulder 

Contact your doctor immediately if any of the above-listed serious side effects are experienced. 

Lactic acidosis symptoms may deteriorate and become life-threatening while taking Ziagen. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience: 

• Unusual muscle pain 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Stomach pain or vomiting 
• Irregular heart rate 
• Dizziness 
• Cold sensation 
• Profound weakness or fatigue 

Ziagen affects the immune system, potentially leading to side effects that can manifest weeks or months after starting the medication. Tell your doctor if you have: 

• Signs of a new infection:  
  • Fever 
  • Night sweats 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Cold sores 
  • Cough 
  • Wheezing 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Weight loss 
• Difficulty in speaking or swallowing, balance or eye movement issues, weakness, or tingling sensations 
• Neck or throat swelling (enlarged thyroid), alterations in menstrual patterns, or impotence 

Allergic Reactions 

Discontinue Ziagen immediately and contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction involving two or more of these specific side effect categories: 

• Group 1 – Fever 
• Group 2 – Rash 
• Group 3 – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain 
• Group 4 – General malaise, extreme fatigue, or body aches 
• Group 5 – Shortness of breath, cough, or sore throat 

If you have had an allergic reaction to Ziagen previously, you must avoid using it again. If you need to discontinue this medication, consult your doctor before resuming treatment. 

This list does not encompass all potential side effects of Ziagen. Notify your doctor if any unlisted side effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Ziagen, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to abacavir. 

Ask your pharmacist for more details about Ziagen, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may lead to allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Ziagen is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, particularly if you have:  

• Liver problems (e.g., hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis) 
• Kidney problems 
• Alcohol use 

Ziagen can interact with certain products, such as alcohol, methadone, and orlistat. To reduce the potential for interactions, communicate with all your healthcare providers about your complete medication list, including prescribed, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Do not take Ziagen with other medications containing abacavir. Verify the labels of your other prescription drugs to ensure they do not have abacavir. 

Ziagen does not cure HIV infection. To reduce the risk of HIV transmission, adhere to your doctor’s prescribed HIV medication regimen, use effective barrier methods during sexual activity as recommended, and avoid sharing personal items that may have come into contact with blood or bodily fluids. 

Ziagen can raise the risk of heart attack. Consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medicine and inform them about any heart problems, smoking habits, or conditions that raise the risk of heart disease. 

Inform your doctor of your pregnancy and adhere to your medication regimen to manage the infection. Uncontrolled HIV during pregnancy can lead to transmission to your baby. Your name might be included in a registry to monitor the potential effects of antiviral medication on your child. 

Women with HIV or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) should avoid breastfeeding, as HIV can be transmitted to the baby through breast milk, even if the baby is initially HIV-negative.