Entecavir Tablets

Entecavir is a prescription antiviral medication used to treat chronic (long-term) hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It is a potent oral drug that belongs to the class of nucleoside analogue reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It is sold under the brand name Baraclude and various generics.

Entecavir works by interfering with the replication process of the hepatitis B virus. Specifically, it inhibits a key viral enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is essential for the virus to multiply. By blocking this enzyme, entecavir prevents the virus from creating new DNA, thus reducing the viral load in the body and helping to slow down or reverse liver damage.

Entecavir tablets are used for the treatment of chronic HBV infection in adults, as well as in children and adolescents aged 2 years and older. It is prescribed for patients who show evidence of active viral replication and have signs of active liver disease, such as elevated liver enzymes (ALT) or histological evidence of inflammation and/or fibrosis.

Important Note: Entecavir is not a cure for hepatitis B. It helps to control the infection and is usually taken long-term to prevent liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It also does not prevent the transmission of the virus to others.

The usual dose for entecavir is 0.5 mg to 1 mg taken once a day. A crucial aspect of its administration is that it must be taken on an empty stomach—at least two hours after a meal and two hours before the next meal. This is because food can significantly affect the absorption of the drug, making it less effective.

Entecavir is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Stomach pain

• Insomnia

Serious Side Effects and Warnings (Less Common):

• Exacerbation of Hepatitis B: Do not stop taking entecavir without consulting your doctor. Discontinuing the medication can cause a sudden and severe worsening of hepatitis B, which can be life-threatening.

• Lactic Acidosis: A rare but serious buildup of lactic acid in the blood can occur. This is more common in women and those who are obese. Symptoms include unusual muscle pain, shortness of breath, stomach pain, and unexplained tiredness.

• Kidney Problems: Patients with kidney disease may require a dose adjustment because entecavir is eliminated from the body through the kidneys.

• HIV Co-infection: If a person has both HIV and HBV, they must be on a fully suppressive regimen for HIV when taking entecavir for hepatitis B. Taking entecavir alone in a person with untreated HIV can lead to the development of drug-resistant HIV.