Abacavir is a guanosine nucleoside analogue. It undergoes phosphorylation in the presence of phosphotransferase and Kinase enzyme and form Carbovir triphosphate. This Carbovir triphosphate competitively inhibit HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme which is responsible for the conversion of viral RNA to pro viral DNA and it is then added to host cell chromosome Carbovir triphosphate terminates elongation of pro viral DNA and results in inhibition of viral replication.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: It is rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration. Distribution: It is widely distributed in the body. Metabolism: It undergoes intracellular metabolism to the active antiviral metabolite Carbovir  triphosphate. Excretion: It is excreted mainly in urine.

Half Life
60 - 120 minutes

Adverse Effects
1.Nausea
2.Vomiting
3.Diarrhoea
4.Anorexia
5.Malaise
6.Fever
7.Pruritis
8.Rash
9.Headache
10.Pharyngitis
11.Cough

ContraIndications
Hypersensitivity to Abacavir

Special Precautions
1.Renal impairment
2.Hepatic impairment (Hepatomegaly, Lactic acidosis)

Pregnancy
Contraindicated

Breast Feeding
Contraindicated

Elderly
Use with caution

Children
May be used

Neonates
Contraindicated

Interactions
Analgesics: Plasma concentration of methadone possibly decreased by abacavir.

Indications
HIV infection in combination with other antiretroviral drugs.

Dosage
Adult: 600 mg / day in 2 divided doses combine with other antiretroviral agents.
Children: 16 mg / kg body weight / day in 2 divided doses.

Storage
Store it at 15 -25 degree C in a tightly closed container .Protect away from heat and light. Keep out of the reach of Children.

Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as noticed and if it is the time to take the next dose then skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Over Dose
Give supportive measures and treatment.