Introduction
Adesera is a brand name for adefovir dipivoxil, an antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It belongs to the nucleotide analog class of antivirals, which work by blocking viral replication.
Description
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Generic Name:Â Adefovir dipivoxil
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Brand Names:Â Adesera (common in India, Middle East), Hepsera (global brand)
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Dosage Form:Â Tablets (10 mg)
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Manufacturer:Â Cipla (Adesera brand)
Uses
Adesera is prescribed for:
✔ Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) infection in adults
✔ Compensated liver disease (to reduce liver damage)
✔ HBV patients with resistance to lamivudine (when combined with other antivirals)
Note: Not effective against hepatitis C (HCV), HIV, or other viruses.
Mechanism of Action
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Adefovir dipivoxil is converted into adefovir in the body.
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Adefovir inhibits HBV DNA polymerase, stopping the virus from replicating.
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Helps reduce liver inflammation and lowers the risk of cirrhosis/liver cancer.
Side Effects
Common side effects:
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Weakness, headache
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Nausea, stomach pain
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Mild diarrhea
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Increased liver enzymes
Serious side effects (require medical attention):
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Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) – Especially with long-term use
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Lactic acidosis (rare but dangerous)
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Severe liver flare-ups (if treatment is stopped abruptly)
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Bone marrow suppression (very rare)
Storage
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Store at room temperature (below 30°C).
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Keep away from moisture and light.
Precautions & Warnings
âš Â Kidney function:Â Must be monitored regularly (risk of nephrotoxicity).
âš Â Liver function:Â Check HBV DNA levels and liver enzymes periodically.
âš Â HIV co-infection:Â Not recommended as monotherapy (risk of HIV resistance).
âš Â Pregnancy & breastfeeding:Â Use only if clearly needed (limited safety data).
⚠ Do NOT stop suddenly (can cause severe hepatitis flare-up).
Drug Interactions:
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Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., NSAIDs, aminoglycosides) → Increased kidney risk
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Tenofovir (similar drug, may increase toxicity)
Conclusion
Adesera (adefovir) is an effective treatment for chronic hepatitis B, particularly in lamivudine-resistant cases. However, it requires regular kidney and liver monitoring due to potential toxicity.
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