Telbivudine oral tablet

What is this medicine?

TELBIVUDINE (tel BIV ue deen) is an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat hepatitis. This medicine will not cure hepatitis. It will not stop the spread of hepatitis to others.

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. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

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:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing difficulties

• dark urine

• general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms

• light-colored stools

• loss of appetite, nausea

• muscle pain or weakness

• nausea, vomiting, unusual stomach upset or pain

• unusually weak or tired

• yellowing of the eyes or skin

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

• fever

• headache

• stomach upset

• trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

• interferon products

• other medicines that leave the body through the kidneys

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• immune system problems

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to telbivudine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

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.

Talk to your doctor if you plan to stop this medicine. The symptoms of hepatitis may get worse if you stop this medicine.

Hepatitis is spread to others through sexual or blood contact. Talk to your doctor about how to stop the spread of Hepatitis.