Introduction ABEC-L TABLETS:

ABEC L is a combination of Abacavir and Lamivudine which belongs to the group of medicines called Anti-viral agents. It is used in the management of HIV infection in adults, adolescents and in children (weighing above 25 kgs). HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection is a viral infection that damages our immune system and weakens our body’s ability to fight against various infections.

Both abacavir and lamivudine are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. They work by blocking the actions of certain viral enzymes (HIV-reverse transcriptase) that is required for the viral cell to grow and multiply. This prevents further multiplication of viral cells within the body. Also, they can improve immunity in the affected patients by increasing the number of certain types of white blood cells (CD4) in the body which is required to fight against various infections.

ABEC L cannot not manage HIV infection completely. It can reduce only the number of viral cells present in the body and maintains them at a lower level. During management with ABEC L your doctor will closely monitor your body weight, blood cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.

Do not take ABEC L if you are allergic to abacavir or lamivudine. Before taking ABEC L inform your doctor if you have diabetes or any liver (hepatitis C or B infection), kidney or heart problems. If you are already taking ABEC L to manage hepatitis B or C infection, do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.

Even if you take ABEC L, it is important for you to follow certain measures to prevent the spread of infections to the other people (such as avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing needles or personal items like toothbrush, razors etc with other people). ABEC L is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

The most common side effects of taking ABEC L are difficulty in sleeping, increased signs of infections, nausea, stomach pain, headache, or dizziness. Consult your doctor if any of these side effects worsens. Also inform your doctor immediately if you experience severe fever with extreme tiredness, sudden changes in body weight or severe stomach pain along with dark urine after taking ABEC L.

Uses of ABEC-L TABLETS:

• Manages HIV infection in adults, adolescents and in children (weighing above 25 kgs)

How to consume ABEC-L TABLETS:

Take ABEC L as directed by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. ABEC L can be taken with or without meals.

Your doctor will decide the correct dose and for how long ABEC L must be taken depending upon your age, body weight and severity of the infection. Do not stop taking ABEC L without consulting your doctor as it may reduce its effectiveness.