ah-BACK-ah-veer
Therapeutic Classification: antiretrovirals
Pharmacologic Classification: nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
Absorption: Rapidly and extensively (83%) absorbed.
Distribution: Distributes into extravascular space and readily distributes into erythrocytes.
Half-Life: 1.5 hr.
Contraindicated in:
Hypersensitivity (rechallenge may be fatal);
Presence of HLA-B*5701 allele (↑ risk of potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction);
Use Cautiously in:
Derm: rash
F and E: LACTIC ACIDOSIS
GI: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, HEPATOMEGALY (WITH STEATOSIS)
Misc: HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS, immune reconstitution syndrome
Drug-drug:
Assess for signs of hypersensitivity reactions (fever, rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, malaise, fatigue, achiness, dyspnea, cough, pharyngitis). May also cause ↑ liver function tests, ↑ CK, ↑ serum creatinine, and lymphopenia. Patients who carry the HLA-B*5701 allele are at high risk for hypersensitivity reaction. Reactions usually occurred during first 6 wk of therapy. Discontinue promptly if hypersensitivity reaction is suspected. Regardless of HLA-B*5701 status, permanently discontinue abacavir if hypersensitivity cannot be ruled out, even when other diagnoses are possible. Following a hypersensitivity reaction, never restart abacavir or abacavir-containing products. More severe symptoms may occur within hours and may include life-threatening hypotension and death. Symptoms usually resolve upon discontinuation.
Lab Test Considerations:
Screen for HLA-B*5701 allele prior to initiation of therapy to ↓ risk of hypersensitivity reaction. Screening is also recommended prior to reinitiation of abacavir in patients of unknown HLA-B*5701 status who have previously tolerated abacavir.
Advise patient of potential for hypersensitivity reactions that may result in death. Instruct patient to discontinue abacavir and notify health care professional immediately if symptoms of hypersensitivity or signs of immune reconstitution syndrome (signs and symptoms of an infection) occur. A warning card summarizing symptoms of abacavir hypersensitivity is provided with each prescription; instruct patient to carry card at all times.
NDC Code