X-Vir

Uses
X-Vir (Entecavir) is a nucleoside analogue used to treat hepatitis B. Its antiviral properties help to stop the virus from spreading. This in turn can help protect the liver from damage. Doctors generally recommend the use of this treatment in cases where active replication of the virus is present, as well as elevated levels in serum aminotransferases or other signs of the disease being active. The main ingredient in this medicine is known to act against hepatitis B reverse transcriptase (an enzyme needed by the virus to generate DNA from RNA templates).

This is a vital step in the viral reproduction process, and by inhibiting reverse transcription, this medicine is able to effectively halt the progress of the virus and prevent it from multiplying. It may also lower the levels of the virus present in the body. Because the HBV can infect the liver and cause damage to it, preventing the viral spread is a vital step in the treatment process, so as to help prevent the development of serious health conditions associated with hepatitis C.

Dosage and Administration
X-Vir (Entecavir) comes as 0.5mg strength film coated tablets which are intended to be taken by mouth. Adults affected by hepatitis B who are nucleoside treatment naive may be directed by their doctor to take a dosage consisting of 0.5mg (one tablet) once every day on an empty stomach. However, those patients who are suffering from lamivudine-refractory or certain other forms of the disease (including resistance mutations) may be told by the doctor providing treatment to take 1mg per day. Make sure that you strictly adhere to all instructions given by the doctor.

Side effects
Patients should take note of the fact that X-Vir (Entecavir) can trigger side effects. Some examples are listed here:

• Fatigue
• Vertigo
• Sickness
• Headaches
• Digestive disruption

Apart from mild reactions, certain patients may suffer from serious adverse effects, however this is usually considered to be less common. Get medical assistance or consult your doctor straight away if you are affected by numbness affecting the limbs, weakness, severe pain in the stomach or any other severe side effects that have not been listed here.

Precautions
In rare cases, patients treated with this antiviral medication have suffered from a serious condition called lactic acidosis in which lactic acid accumulates in the blood. This will require urgent medical attention.

Your doctor will schedule regular medical checkups for you throughout treatment, and blood tests will also be needed in order to monitor the function of your liver and the levels of the virus present in the body.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use X-Vir (Entecavir) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.