Inbec 

Inbec is a combination antiretroviral medication used for the treatment and management of HIV-1 infection. This fixed-dose combination includes three active antiretroviral agents: abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. These components work together to inhibit different stages of the viral replication cycle, thereby improving immune function and reducing viral load.

Composition:

Each Inbec tablet contains:

• Abacavir: 600 mg
• Dolutegravir: 50 mg
• Lamivudine: 300 mg

Uses:

Inbec is used for:

• The treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents weighing at least 40 kg.
• It is intended as a part of a complete antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen to achieve viral suppression and improve immune system function.

Mechanism of Action:

Abacavir:

• A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme. This enzyme is crucial for transcribing viral RNA into DNA, a necessary step for HIV replication.

Dolutegravir:

• An integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that blocks the HIV integrase enzyme. This enzyme is essential for the integration of viral DNA into the host cell’s genome, preventing HIV replication.

Lamivudine:

• Another nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that, similar to abacavir, inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme, thereby preventing the replication of the virus.

Dosage:

• Adults and Adolescents (weighing at least 40 kg): One tablet taken orally once daily with or without food.

Side Effects:

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Rash

Less common but serious side effects:

• Hypersensitivity reactions (particularly with abacavir; includes fever, rash, gastrointestinal symptoms, respiratory symptoms)
• Liver function changes
• Lactic acidosis
• Hepatomegaly with steatosis (enlarged liver with fat accumulation)
• Renal (kidney) impairment
• Potentially severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)

Recommendations:

• Take Inbec exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not miss doses or adjust the dose on your own.
• Take the medication at the same time every day to maintain consistent drug levels.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Important Note:

• Abacavir Hypersensitivity: Before initiating therapy, you must be screened for the HLA-B*5701 allele, which is associated with a higher risk of hypersensitivity reactions to abacavir. If you test positive, you should not receive abacavir.
• Do not stop taking Inbec without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to an increase in viral load and potential development of resistance.
• Regularly monitor blood counts, liver, and kidney function as part of ongoing monitoring by your healthcare provider.
• Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should inform their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
• Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and direct light.
• Report any new symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Maintain regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and to assess the efficacy and safety of treatment.

This detailed overview covers the key aspects of Inbec (Abacavir, Dolutegravir, and Lamivudine Tablet). Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and treatment adjustments.