Adfovir

Adfovir Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Adfovir is a brand name. Its generic name is Adefovir Dipivoxil.

Adfovir Introduction

Adfovir (trade name: Hepsera) is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Adfovir exerts its anti-viral activity by inhibiting the viral DNA-dependent DNA polymerase, and thus preventing further replication of the virus. Adfovir was approved in the U.S. in 2002 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Uses For

Adfovir is used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, including individuals with evidence of active viral replication and a history of frequent clinical or laboratory flare-ups. Adfovir is also used in patients who have developed resistance to previous treatment with lamivudine (Epivir) and/or other antiviral agents.

Mechanism Of Action

Adfovir exerts its anti-viral activity by inhibiting the viral DNA-dependent DNA polymerase, and thus preventing further replication of the virus. Adfovir also has a secondary effect of increasing synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which interferes with viral replication and transcription.

How Long Does It Take To Work

The duration of treatment depends on how quickly the patient responds to the drug. Generally, it takes one to two weeks to achieve a clinical response and up to several months to eliminate the virus completely. Therefore, follow up visits with a doctor are important to monitor progress and ensure adherence to the prescribed treatment.

Absorption

Adfovir is rapidly and extensively absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Its bioavailability is approximately 90% with peak plasma concentrations occurring within one to two hours.

Route Of Elimination

Adfovir is primarily eliminated through the kidneys by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Approximately 11% of the applied dose is excreted unchanged from the kidneys into the urine.

Dosage

Adfovir is available in 10mg tablets. The recommended dosage range for adults is 10 to 50mg a day, taken once a day. The recommended dosage range for children over 12 years of age is 10 to 40mg a day, taken as one or two divided doses. The dose should be adjusted as needed to achieve concentrations of Adfovir in the blood that are high enough to have an antiviral effect, but low enough to avoid toxicity.

Administration

Adfovir should be taken orally, with or without food, once a day. It is important to take Adfovir regularly and consistently at the same time each day to ensure maximum therapeutic effect.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Adfovir include nausea, headaches, dizziness, muscle pain, weakness, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include liver problems, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.

Toxicity

Adfovir, like other antiviral drugs, has the potential for toxicity. Toxic reaction to Adfovir is characterized by a decrease in kidney function, which in turn can lead to an increased concentration of the drug in the blood. Prolonged use of Adfovir can lead to irreversible liver damage.

Precaution

In order to minimize the potential risk of toxicity with Adfovir, it is important to monitor liver function and kidney function closely. It is also important to inform the doctor of any other medications or herbal products being used, as Adfovir may interact with them.

Interaction

Adfovir has been known to interact with other medications, including some antifungals, antibiotics, antivirals, and psychotropic medications. It is important to inform the doctor of any other medications or herbal products being used, as Adfovir may interact with them.

Disease Interaction

Adfovir should not be used in patients with renal impairment, severe hepatic impairment, or those who are immunocompromised.

Drug Interaction

Adfovir has been known to interact with other medications, including some antifungals, antibiotics, antivirals, and psychotropic medications. It is important to inform the doctor of any other medications or herbal products being used, as Adfovir may interact with them.

Food Interactions

No specific food interactions have been reported with Adfovir. However, it is important to inform the doctor of any dietary supplements and foods being consumed, as certain substances can interact with this medication.

Pregnancy Use

Adfovir should not be used in pregnant women, as animal studies have shown harm to the fetus.

Lactation Use

Adfovir should not be used in breastfeeding women, as it is not known if it is safe for breastfeeding infants.

Acute Overdose

In cases of acute overdose, the patient should be monitored closely and medical treatment sought immediately.

Contraindication

Adfovir should not be used in patients with renal impairment, severe hepatic impairment, or those who are immunocompromised.

Use Direction

Adfovir should be taken orally, with or without food, once a day. It is important to take Adfovir regularly and consistently at the same time each day to ensure maximum therapeutic effect.

Storage Condition

Adfovir should be stored at room temperature in a light-resistant container.

Volume Of Distribution

Adfovir has a volume of distribution of approximately 15-20 L.

Half Life

Adfovir has a half-life of approximately 17-22 hours.

Clearance

Adfovir is cleared from the body primarily through renal excretion, with a total body clearance of approximately 17-22 mL/min.

Here you find in details version of Adfovir

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Adfovir

.

Q1. What is Adfovir?

Adfovir is an antiviral medicine used in adults to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

Q2. How does Adfovir work?

Adfovir works by stopping the spread of hepatitis B virus within the body, and preventing further damage to the liver.

Q3. What are the uses of Adfovir?

Adfovir is used for treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults.

Q4. What are the side effects of Adfovir?

Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

Q5. What is the recommended dosage of Adfovir?

Adfovir should be taken at 10 mg once daily for 48 weeks.

Q6. How long should I take Adfovir?

The usual adult dose is 10 mg once a day for 48 weeks.

Q7. How should I store Adfovir?

Store Adfovir at room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C).

Q8. Is Adfovir safe?

Yes, Adfovir is usually well-tolerated when taken as directed by your doctor.

Q9. Can I drink alcohol while taking Adfovir?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Adfovir.

Q10. Can I take other medications with Adfovir?

You should talk to your doctor before taking any other medications with Adfovir.

Q11. What are the precautions to be taken while taking Adfovir?

Patients should avoid contact sports or activities that cause injury. There is a risk of decreased kidney function when taking Adfovir, so tell your doctor about any kidney issues.

Q12. Is Adfovir addictive?

No, Adfovir is not known to be addictive.

Q13. Can pregnant women take Adfovir?

No, pregnant women should not take Adfovir as it may cause harm to a developing baby.

Q14. Can breastfeeding women take Adfovir?

It is not known if Adfovir passes into breast milk and can harm a nursing baby, so talk to your doctor before taking Adfovir while breastfeeding.

Q15. Can Adfovir be taken with antacids?

No, Adfovir should not be taken with antacids as they may interfere with the effectiveness of Adfovir.

Q16. What if I miss a dose of Adfovir?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Q17. Can Adfovir be taken with food?

Adfovir can be taken with or without food.

Q18. Does Adfovir interact with any drugs?

It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, especially antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, oral contraceptives, or antacids as they may interact with Adfovir.

Q19. Is there any laboratory monitoring required to take Adfovir?

Yes, your doctor may recommend laboratory monitoring to monitor your kidney function while taking Adfovir.

Q20. What should I do if I experience any side effects of Adfovir?

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects of Adfovir.

Q21. How long does it take for Adfovir to start working?

Adfovir usually starts to work within 12 weeks of starting treatment.

Q22. How long should I continue taking Adfovir?

You should take Adfovir for the full duration of your prescribed treatment.

Q23. What should I do if I overdose on Adfovir?

If you think you have taken too much Adfovir, contact your local poison control center or seek immediate medical attention.

Q24. Can I take Adfovir with other antiviral medications?

It is important to tell your doctor about any other antiviral medications your are taking as they may interact with Adfovir.

Q25. Should Adfovir be taken with food?

Adfovir can be taken with or without food.

Q26. Are there any special instructions for taking Adfovir?

Be sure to take Adfovir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not start or stop taking Adfovir without consulting your doctor.

Q27. Should I take Adfovir with other medications?

You should tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking as they may interact with Adfovir.

Q28. Do I need to take any other medication with Adfovir?

Your doctor may advise you to take other drugs along with Adfovir to prevent or lessen any side effects that may occur.

Q29. What should I do if I forget to take Adfovir?

If you forget to take your dose of Adfovir, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Q30. Does Adfovir have any interactions with other medications?

It is important to talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking, especially antibiotics, oral contraceptives, anti-seizure medications, or antacids, as they may interact with Adfovir.