Epzicom Uses

Epzicom is used for treating HIV and AIDS. At this time, the medication is only approved for use in adults. Occasionally, healthcare providers may also recommend the drug for off-label uses. Off-label Epzicom uses may include the prevention of HIV infection in people exposed to the HIV virus (such as a healthcare worker who comes in contact with a contaminated needle stick).

 

What Is Epzicom Used For?

Epzicom™ (abacavir/lamivudine) is a prescription medication used to treat HIV and AIDS. It contains two different medications, both of which belong to a group of medications known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs).
 
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first reported in the United States in 1981 and has since become a significant worldwide epidemic. AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Initially, an HIV infection usually does not cause any obvious symptoms (see HIV Symptoms). However, by killing or damaging cells of the body's immune system, HIV will eventually begin to progressively destroy the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers (see AIDS Symptoms).
 
HIV is commonly spread through sexual contact with an infected partner. HIV transmission also happens through contact with infected blood, which frequently occurs among IV drug users (who share needles or syringes contaminated with blood from someone infected with the virus). Women with HIV can transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
 
Even though Epzicom contains two different HIV medications, it is not intended to be used alone. Instead, it is used as part of an HIV "cocktail." These cocktails consist of three or four different HIV medications (technically known as highly active antiretroviral therapy or HAART). Using combinations of medications helps to prevent the virus from becoming resistant to one or more of the drugs.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;