Used For:

• HIV treatment

Contraindications:

• HLA-B*5701 positive (abacavir hypersensitivity risk)Previous abacavir hypersensitivity reactionSevere liver disease (Child-Pugh C)Severe renal impairment (lamivudine adjustment needed)Concomitant use with dofetilide (severe interactions)Infants <3 months (safety data limited)

Side Effects:

• CommonHeadacheNausea, vomitingInsomniaDiarrheaFatigueIncreased appetite/weight gain (dolutegravir-related)ModerateHigh cholesterol or triglyceridesMild liver enzyme elevationAnxiety or vivid dreams

Precautions:

• HLA-B*5701 testing MUST be done before starting abacavir.If patient develops fever or rash → stop immediately and visit ER (possible abacavir hypersensitivity).Review drug interactions:Rifampicin (may require adjusted DTG dose)Metformin (DTG increases levels)Antacids (reduce DTG absorption — keep 2-hour gap)Use caution in hepatitis B or C infection (lamivudine active against HBV).Regular monitoring:Liver functionKidney functionBlood glucose, lipidsViral load every 3–6 months

Dietary Restrictions:

• Alcohol excess (increases liver toxicity risk)High-dose calcium/iron supplements together with dolutegravirIf needed: take 2 hours before or 6 hours after DTGSt. John’s Wort (reduces efficacy)