Lamivudine, 3TC; Zidovudine, ZDV
Lamivudine, Zidovudine Oral tablet
What is this medicine?
LAMIVUDINE; ZIDOVUDINE (la MI vyoo deen; zye DOE vyoo deen) is two antiretroviral medicines in one tablet. It is used with other medicines to treat HIV. This medicine is not a cure for HIV. It will not stop the spread of HIV to others.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood or bone marrow problems
kidney disease
liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to lamivudine, zidovudine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You may take this medicine with or without food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. For your anti-HIV therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine even if you feel better. Skipping doses may make the HIV virus resistant to this medicine and other medicines. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children weighing at least 30 kg (66 pounds) for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
atovaquone
doxorubicin
fluconazole
ganciclovir
interferon
methadone
nelfinavir
probenecid
ribavirin
ritonavir
stavudine
sulfamethoxazole; trimethoprim, SMX-TMP
trimethoprim
valproic acid
zalcitabine, ddC
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor. You will need to have important blood work done while on this medicine.
HIV is spread to others through sexual or blood contact. Talk to your doctor about how to stop the spread of HIV.
If you have hepatitis B, talk to your doctor if you plan to stop or change your therapy. The symptoms of hepatitis B may get worse after you stop this medicine.
Do not treat severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting with over-the-counter medicines. Contact your doctor.
This medicine can cause blood problems. You may have slow healing and a higher risk of infection while on this medicine. Try to avoid cutting or injuring yourself. Be careful not to damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
breathing difficulties
depression
fever, chills, or sore throat
muscle aches, pains, weakness
pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
seizures
unusual bruising or bleeding
unusually weak or tired
weight gain around waist, back, or thinning of face, arms, legs
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
cough
diarrhea
difficulty sleeping
dizziness
headache
loss of appetite
nausea, vomiting
runny, stuffy nose
stomach pain, upset
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store between 2 and 30 degrees C (36 and 86 degrees F). Keep the container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert