ENTAVIR 1.0MG TABLET

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Entecavir is a guanine nucleoside analogue that is selectively phosphorylated inside the body to its active form, entecavir triphosphate. This compound effectively:

• Inhibits HBV DNA polymerase (reverse transcriptase)

• Blocks three key steps in the viral replication process:

  • Base priming

  • Reverse transcription of negative-strand HBV DNA

  • Synthesis of positive-strand HBV DNA

By halting the virus’s ability to multiply, Entecavir reduces viral load, improves liver function, and slows down or prevents the progression of liver damage.

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📌 Indications and Uses

Entecavir 1mg is specifically indicated for:

• Chronic Hepatitis B infection in adults and adolescents (≥16 years) with:

  • Evidence of active viral replication

  • Elevated ALT or AST levels

  • Histological signs of liver inflammation or fibrosis

• Treatment-experienced patients with resistance to other antivirals like Lamivudine

• Patients with compensated or decompensated liver disease, including cirrhosis

It is often part of long-term therapy, requiring regular monitoring and medical supervision.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Recommended dose:

  • 1mg once daily for treatment-experienced or resistant patients

  • 0.5mg once daily for treatment-naive patients

• Take on an empty stomach (at least 2 hours before or after a meal)

• Do not skip doses, as missed doses increase risk of viral resistance

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Monitor liver function regularly during and after treatment

• Sudden discontinuation may cause severe acute exacerbation of hepatitis

• Use with caution in patients with:

  • Renal impairment (dose adjustment required)

  • History of lactic acidosis or hepatic decompensation

• Not recommended for patients co-infected with HIV unless on full HIV therapy

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🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Nausea

Rare/Serious:

• Lactic acidosis (especially in advanced liver disease)

• Hepatomegaly with steatosis

• Worsening of hepatitis after stopping medication

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Seek medical help if experiencing severe fatigue, muscle pain, trouble breathing, or yellowing of skin/eyes.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Minimal drug interactions overall

• Use cautiously with nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, NSAIDs)

• No significant interactions with food, but must be taken on empty stomach

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use expired tablets

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📝 Conclusion

Entecavir 1mg is a highly effective antiviral agent for chronic Hepatitis B, especially in treatment-resistant or advanced liver disease patients. Its ability to significantly lower viral load and protect liver function over the long term makes it a cornerstone in chronic HBV management. When taken consistently under medical supervision, it offers strong viral suppression, low resistance risk, and better long-term liver health outcomes.

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Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.