Entecavir
- Formulation: Available in both tablet and oral solution forms, usually in 0.5 mg and 1 mg strengths for tablets.
- Mechanism of Action: Entecavir is a nucleoside analogue that works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme in the hepatitis B virus (HBV), preventing the virus from replicating and reducing its ability to spread in the body.
- Recommended Usage
Indications:
Entecavir is mainly used for:- Chronic Hepatitis B: It is prescribed for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection in adults and children (usually over 2 years old) with evidence of active viral replication and liver damage.
- HBV-Related Cirrhosis: It may also be used in patients with liver cirrhosis resulting from chronic hepatitis B to help slow the progression of the disease.
Dosage:
For Adults:
- Chronic Hepatitis B (naive to treatment): The usual dose is 0.5 mg once daily.
- For Treatment-Experienced Patients: If the patient has developed resistance to previous antiviral therapies (such as lamivudine), the dose may be increased to 1 mg once daily.
For Children (2 years and older):
- Dosage varies based on body weight and the severity of the disease. A healthcare provider will adjust the dose as necessary.
Renal Impairment:
- For patients with kidney problems, the dose may need to be adjusted based on the level of kidney function. If there is significant renal impairment, the doctor may choose a lower dose or alternate treatment.
Precautions:
- Liver Disease: Entecavir should be used cautiously in patients with cirrhosis, especially decompensated cirrhosis (advanced liver damage). Regular monitoring of liver function is necessary.
- Resistance: If you stop or skip doses, there is a risk of developing resistance to entecavir or other antiviral medications. Stick to your prescribed schedule and consult your doctor if you miss a dose.
- Renal Function: Patients with kidney issues may need adjustments to the dosage, as the drug is cleared through the kidneys.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While there is limited data on entecavir's safety during pregnancy, it should only be used if absolutely necessary. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Hepatitis B Reactivation: If you stop entecavir treatment, hepatitis B reactivation may occur. It's important to not discontinue the medication without medical advice.
- Co-infection with HIV: If you are co-infected with HIV and hepatitis B, entecavir may not be sufficient on its own to control HIV. HIV-specific treatment is also required.
