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Learn MoreAntiretroviral
Brand names:
Ziagen®
Often used for:
HIV-1 infection
Abacavir is used along with other medicines to treat infection caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Abacavir is in a group of medicines called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It works to slow down how soon symptoms appear and may help slow the damage caused by HIV. Abacavir does not cure HIV.
This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.
The care team may order a genetic test called HLA-B. The genetic test will tell the care team the possibility of developing an allergic reaction to the medicine.
Your child’s care team will do blood tests to check your child’s response to these medicines.
May be given as a tablet by mouth
May be given as a liquid by mouth
If a rash develops during the first few weeks of taking this medicine and includes 2 of more side effects listed above, stop taking abacavir and contact the care team right away.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, runny nose, fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, dizziness, low blood pressure, pain in the chest, side, or back, swelling of the face or neck.
Not all patients who take abacavir will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Report any symptoms or side effects to your care provider or pharmacist. Find more information on side effects.
Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your care provider or pharmacist.