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Side Effects of 3TC

Lamivudine is a medication sold in generic form and also under the brand name Epivir, prescribed to people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The drug is commonly called 3TC as a shorthand for its chemical composition. An antiviral medication, 3TC slows the growth of HIV.

  1. Most Common Effects

    • In some pre-approval clinical studies with 3TC, as detailed by eMedTV, over 20 percent of participants experienced fatigue and malaise, headaches or infections involving the ear, nose or throat.

    Additional Side Effects

    • Other common side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, muscle or joint pain, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills and weakness.

    Peripheral Neuropathy

    • 3TC can cause peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage in the feet and hands. Symptoms are burning sensations or numbness.

    Pancreatitis

    • Another side effect which can result from taking 3TC is pancreatitis, usually in children. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, fever, rapid heart rate and rapid breathing.

    Warning

    • A rare but very serious side effect associated with 3TC use is lactic acidosis. This is an acid-base disorder of the liver and blood. Signs include dark urine or jaundice, obvious fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, muscle aches, and nausea and vomiting.

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