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What is Adefovir?

Emma Lloyd
Emma Lloyd

Adefovir is an antiviral drug most often used to treat hepatitis B, a viral infection that targets the liver. This medication is a type of antiviral drug called a reverse transcriptase inhibitor, and it works by preventing the virus from multiplying. This antiviral medication can be an effective treatment, but it does not cure hepatitis B or prevent the spread of the disease from an infected person to other people.

This medication was originally developed as an antiviral for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Originally named Preveon®, the drug was never fully developed as an HIV medication because of concerns about kidney toxicity. Despite this, development continued, this time as a hepatitis B treatment. This is possible in spite of the toxicity issues because hepatitis B treatment requires much smaller doses than were used in development for an HIV treatment. Adefovir is approved for hepatitis B treatment in the United States and the European Union, and it is sold under the brand name Hepsera®.

Extreme fatigue may be a side effect of adefovir.
Extreme fatigue may be a side effect of adefovir.

Adefovir is a nucleotide analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor. This term describes the way in which the drug works to suppress viral replication. Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme produced by several types of virus, including HIV and the virus that causes hepatitis B, and it is crucial for replicating viral deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

A nucleotide analog drug is one that mimics the structure of a nucleotide, a molecule incorporated into DNA strands. The reverse transcriptase enzyme attempts to add the nucleotide analog into DNA strands but cannot, because the analog is not sufficiently like a real nucleotide. As a result, reverse transcriptase cannot complete the DNA molecule, and the virus cannot replicate.

Adefovir is most frequently used to treat hepatitis B.
Adefovir is most frequently used to treat hepatitis B.

Adefovir can cause a range of side effects. The most common of these are respiratory symptoms and gastrointestinal problems. Someone who is taking this medication might experience headaches, runny nose, sore throat, cough, indigestion, gas and diarrhea. He or she might also feel fatigued or weak. These symptoms are generally mild and temporary, but if they become severe or persistent, they should be reported to a doctor.

The term "hepatitis" refers to inflammation and swelling of the liver.
The term "hepatitis" refers to inflammation and swelling of the liver.

Some side effects of this medication can be serious and even life-threatening. These include dizziness, unexplained bruising or bleeding, yellowing of the eyes or skin, vomiting, nausea, dark urine, light-colored stools, coldness of the limbs, irregular or rapid heartbeat and extreme fatigue or weakness. These symptoms can indicate liver damage. Kidney damage is another risk when using this medication, and it can cause symptoms such as decreased urination, mental confusion and swelling of the lower legs, ankles, feet or hands.

Adefovir was originally developed as a part of the drug cocktail used to treat HIV, but there were concerns about side effects.
Adefovir was originally developed as a part of the drug cocktail used to treat HIV, but there were concerns about side effects.

Another issue to be aware of regarding adefovir is that adverse effects can occur when treatment is discontinued. This is because viral replication can increase suddenly and dramatically in the absence of the medication. Someone who is taking this medication should ensure that he or she fills prescriptions promptly to avoid running out. In addition, it is important to talk with a doctor before discontinuing use of the drug.

Discussion Comments

MagicRunner

4. Hepsera is the brand name of Adefovir and it has been shown to slow the rate of growth of the Hep-B virus. It is also taken by mouth. Again, contact your doctor if you begin to show signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, itchiness, trouble catching your breath or dizziness.

If you are obese or have been obese in the past, tell your doctor.

TanGoddess

Another one of Adefovir’s side effects is confusion. Be sure to contact your doctor if you experience this. Also, contact your doctor immediately if you suddenly break out into a rash.

Combinations of certain other medications with Adefovir result in adverse reactions. be sure to let your doctor know if you have taken (or are still taking) acetaminophen such has Tylenol, meds for lowering your cholesterol, niacin or iron supplements. Never stop taking Adefovir unless you discuss this with your doctor first. It may result in your condition worsening.

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    • Extreme fatigue may be a side effect of adefovir.
      By: Antonioguillem
      Extreme fatigue may be a side effect of adefovir.
    • Adefovir is most frequently used to treat hepatitis B.
      By: alexskopje
      Adefovir is most frequently used to treat hepatitis B.
    • The term "hepatitis" refers to inflammation and swelling of the liver.
      By: maya2008
      The term "hepatitis" refers to inflammation and swelling of the liver.
    • Adefovir was originally developed as a part of the drug cocktail used to treat HIV, but there were concerns about side effects.
      By: danilkorolev
      Adefovir was originally developed as a part of the drug cocktail used to treat HIV, but there were concerns about side effects.
    • Adefovir may cause headaches as a side effect.
      By: jedi-master
      Adefovir may cause headaches as a side effect.