Lamivudine

A Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI). It is a core component of most pediatric HIV treatment regimens worldwide due to its safety profile.

Dosage by Body Weight

Pediatric HIV dose: 4 mg/kg twice daily or 8 mg/kg once daily. For Hepatitis B, the dose is lower (3 mg/kg). Must be used as part of a combination.

Body Weight
3-5 kg
Dose
15 mg to 20 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Tracking Notes
Oral solution is 10mg/ml; measure carefully.
Body Weight
14-20 kg
Dose
60 mg to 80 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Tracking Notes
Often provided in fixed-dose combination tablets.

Weight-based dosage tracking table for Lamivudine, including body weight, dose, frequency, and tracking notes.
Body Weight	Dose	Frequency	Tracking Notes
3-5 kg	15 mg to 20 mg	Twice daily	Oral solution is 10mg/ml; measure carefully.
14-20 kg	60 mg to 80 mg	Twice daily	Often provided in fixed-dose combination tablets.

Formulation

Oral SolutionTablet

Purpose

Used in combination with other antiretrovirals to treat HIV-1 infection and chronic Hepatitis B.

Generic Name

Lamivudine (3TC)

Branded Drug Names

Lamivudine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Emtricitabine Abacavir

Safety Advice

Alcohol

CAUTION

Lamivudine: Alcohol may worsen dizziness, nausea, dehydration, or liver strain during antiviral treatment. Avoid or limit alcohol.

Pregnancy

SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Lamivudine: Use during pregnancy only when prescribed; treatment may be important for maternal infection control or prevention of transmission.

Breast Feeding

SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Lamivudine: Breastfeeding advice depends on the infection and treatment regimen. Use only with healthcare provider guidance.

Driving

CAUTION

Lamivudine: May cause dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbance, or headache. Avoid driving if alertness is affected.

Liver

CAUTION

Lamivudine: Some antivirals can affect liver function or require monitoring in hepatitis, HIV, or severe illness.

Kidney

CAUTION

Lamivudine: Several antivirals are cleared by the kidneys and may need dose adjustment or hydration. Consult your healthcare provider.