Used For:

• Treat HIV-1 infectionPrevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV (as part of combination therapy)Used only in combination with other antiretroviral drugs (not alone)

Contraindications:

• Do not use in patients with:Hypersensitivity to lamivudine or zidovudineSevere anemia or neutropenia (especially due to zidovudine)Severe liver diseaseHistory of zidovudine-induced myopathyConcurrent use with stavudine (antagonistic effect)

Side Effects:

• Common Side EffectsGastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal painGeneral: fatigue, weakness, fever, headacheHematological: anemia, neutropenia (common with zidovudine)Skin: rash, nail pigmentationMetabolic: mild weight changesSerious (but important) Side EffectsBone marrow suppression (anemia, leukopenia)Lactic acidosis (rare but life-threatening)Hepatomegaly with steatosisMyopathy or muscle weakness (long-term zidovudine use)Pancreatitis (rare, more common in children)

Precautions:

• Baseline and regular monitoring required:CBC (hemoglobin, neutrophils)Liver function testsCD4 count & viral loadUse with caution in:Patients with pre-existing anemiaLiver disease or hepatitis B/C coinfectionRenal impairment (dose adjustment may be needed)Do not stop suddenly — risk of viral reboundNot a cure: safe sex practices still required

Dietary Restrictions:

• Can be taken with or without foodAvoid alcohol → increases liver toxicity riskMaintain adequate nutrition (important for immune function)Stay well hydratedAvoid herbal or OTC drugs without consulting doctor (drug interactions)