What is entecavir?
Entecavir is an antiviral medication. Entecavir prevents certain virus cells from multiplying in your body
Entecavir is used to treat chronic hepatitis B.
Entecavir may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about entecavir?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to entecavir, or if you also have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) that is not being treated.
Some people have developed a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis while taking enteavir. Early signs of lactic acidosis generally get worse over time and this condition can be fatal. Get emergency medical help if you have even mild symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as: muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs, trouble breathing, stomach pain, nausea with vomiting, slow or uneven heart rate, dizziness, or feeling very weak or tired.
Entecavir may also cause severe liver symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Call your doctor at once if you have any of these symptoms.
Some people with hepatitis B develop liver symptoms after they stop taking entecavir, even months after stopping. Your doctor may want to check your liver function on a regular basis for several months after you stop using this medication. Do not miss any scheduled visits.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking entecavir?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to entecavir, or if you also have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) that is not being treated.
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication. Before you take entecavir, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
Some people have developed a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis while taking entecavir. You may be more likely to develop lactic acidosis if you have liver or kidney disease, congestive heart failure, or if you drink large amounts of alcohol. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether entecavir is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you take entecavir, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Your name may need to be listed on an antiviral pregnancy registry when you start using this medication.
It is not known whether entecavir passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.