Lamivudine is an antiviral medication used in tablet form to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (in combination with other drugs) and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It works by blocking an enzyme that the viruses need to replicate in the body. 

Key Information

• Uses: Lamivudine is a primary component of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-1 and is used as a monotherapy for chronic hepatitis B. It does not cure these infections but helps manage them, slow progression, and reduce transmission risk.

• Dosage:

  • For HIV infection: The usual adult dose is 300 mg once daily or 150 mg twice daily, as part of a combination regimen.

  • For chronic hepatitis B: The usual adult dose is 100 mg once daily.

  • Important Note: The doses for HIV and HBV are different. Patients with both HIV and HBV must use the higher, combination-therapy dose for HIV to prevent the HIV virus from becoming resistant to the medication.