Side Effects of Lamivudine

Common Side Effects

There are several common side effects that often result from taking Lamivudine. These side effects are generally not considered to be cause for alarm, as they tend to go away as the body gets used to the medication. However, should they persist or get worse, medical attention would be necessary. These side effects are indigestion, body fat changes, muscle ache, lower appetite, nausea, coughing, chills, problems with sleeping, diarrhea, infection of the ears, nose, or throat, sinus drainage, joint pain, sore throat, discomfort of the stomach, fatigue and headache.

Serious side effects are also possible with Lamivudine. In situations of serious side effects, emergency medical attention is necessary as soon as possible. These potentially dangerous side effects include depression, darker colored urine, the stomach becoming larger, tingling or numbness in the legs or the arms, abnormal bruising or bleeding, unusual fatigue or feelings of weakness, the eyes or the skin becoming yellow, lingering sore throat, chills, fever and faster heart rate.

Extreme allergic reactions are also considered to be possibly harmful side effects of Lamivudine. Those who experience allergic reactions to the HIV medication must seek immediate medical assistance. Some signs of allergic reaction to Lamivudine include problems with breathing, itchiness, skin rash, swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth and face, and chest tightness.

Drug interactions can always occur when one medication is combined with another medicine or nutritional supplement. These interactions could cause bad side effects, or could result in changes of the effectiveness of the medications or supplements that are involved. It is recommended against taking Lamivudine alongside zalcitabine, which is an HIV medicine. Also, before combining the medication with either trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole, it is advised to consult your doctor first.

Lamivudine can sometimes cause a chemical imbalance called lactic acidosis. It can also result in the liver becoming enlarged. These severe and occasionally life-threatening side effects occur more often to females, overweight individuals and those who have been using medications such as Lamivudine for a long period of time. Some lactic acidosis symptoms are nausea, abdominal ache, exhaustion and a general feeling of malaise.