Entehep 0.5mg Tablet
₹ 899.00/-
Salt: Entecavir (0.5mg)
Product Introduction: Entecavir is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It works by inhibiting the replication of the virus, reducing its levels in the body. By suppressing viral replication, Entecavir helps slow down the progression of liver damage, improving liver function and decreasing the risk of complications linked to chronic HBV infection.
Entehep 0.5 Tablet should be taken on an empty stomach as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the prescribed dosage and duration carefully. Consistent and regular intake of this medication increases its effectiveness. This medication does not cure HBV infection but plays a vital role in managing it and improving liver health.
It is important to continue the medication until your doctor advises otherwise. Always consult your healthcare provider before stopping the treatment.
Precautions: Before taking Entehep 0.5mg Tablet, inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing kidney or skin conditions. Regular blood tests may be needed during the treatment to monitor your liver function and blood counts. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
Uses of Entehep 0.5mg Tablet:
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
Benefits of Entehep 0.5mg Tablet:
For patients with chronic hepatitis B, Entehep 0.5mg Tablet helps control the infection by preventing the replication of the virus. This promotes a healthier immune response and reduces the chances of complications like liver cirrhosis. Though the tablet does not cure HBV, it helps manage the infection effectively, enhancing quality of life.
This medication is often taken with other antiretroviral medicines.
Side Effects of Entehep 0.5mg Tablet:
While Entehep 0.5mg Tablet is generally well tolerated, some common side effects may occur:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
These side effects are typically mild and should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
How to Use Entehep 0.5mg Tablet:
Take Entehep 0.5mg Tablet as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it. It is to be taken on an empty stomach.
How the Tablet Works:
Entehep 0.5mg Tablet is an antiviral drug that inhibits the replication of the hepatitis B virus by preventing the virus from multiplying in human cells. This halts the production of new viral cells and assists in clearing the infection.
Safety Advice:
- Pregnancy: Entehep 0.5mg Tablet may not be safe during pregnancy as animal studies show potential harm to the developing baby. Always consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: It is generally not recommended to use Entehep 0.5mg Tablet while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk, potentially harming the baby.
- Kidney: If you have kidney disease, Entehep 0.5mg Tablet should be used with caution. Dosage adjustments may be required. Consult your doctor for guidance.
- Liver: Entehep 0.5mg Tablet is safe for use in patients with liver disease, and no dose adjustment is typically necessary.
- Alcohol: The effects of consuming alcohol with Entehep 0.5mg Tablet are not fully known. It is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
- Driving: The medication may cause dizziness, sleepiness, or affect vision. If you experience these symptoms, avoid activities like driving until you are fully aware of how the medication affects you.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose:
If you miss a dose of Entehep 0.5mg Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Quick Tips:
- Entehep 0.5mg Tablet is prescribed for chronic hepatitis B infection management.
- It should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or after a meal.
- The tablet may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
- Even after starting treatment, you may still develop infections or other illnesses related to viral infections.
- Regular blood tests are required during treatment and up to six months after stopping the medication to monitor liver function and the level of hepatitis B virus in the body.
Serious Side Effects:
- Lactic acidosis (muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, irregular heartbeat, dizziness)
- Liver problems (yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, lower stomach pain)
FAQs:
Q1. What is Entehep 0.5mg Tablet used for?
Entehep 0.5mg Tablet is used for treating chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults, children, and adolescents aged 2-18 years.
Q2. How does Entehep 0.5mg Tablet work?
It works by inhibiting the DNA synthesis in the hepatitis B virus, which reduces viral replication and improves liver health.
Q3. What are the common side effects of Entehep 0.5mg Tablet?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, and indigestion.
Q4. Does Entehep 0.5mg Tablet cause lactic acidosis?
Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious side effect. If you experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain, contact your doctor immediately.
Q5. Is it safe to use Entehep 0.5mg Tablet during pregnancy?
Entehep 0.5mg Tablet may not be safe during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Q6. Can Entehep 0.5mg Tablet harm the liver?
It may cause liver issues like steatosis and hepatomegaly. If you have liver conditions, your doctor may adjust your dosage.
Q7. How should Entehep 0.5mg Tablet be taken?
Entehep 0.5mg Tablet should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours after or before a meal.
Q8. Is Entehep 0.5mg Tablet effective for hepatitis B?
Yes, it is effective in reducing the viral count and improving liver function in chronic hepatitis B infections.
Q9. How long should Entehep 0.5mg Tablet be taken?
Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s advice. Stopping treatment early may worsen your hepatitis.
Q10. Entehep 0.5mg Tablet vs. Tenofovir: Which is more effective?
Both Entehep 0.5mg Tablet and Tenofovir are effective antivirals for chronic hepatitis B treatment. Consult your doctor to determine which is best for you.
Product Fact Box:
- Molecule Name: Entecavir
- Therapeutic Class: Anti-viral
- Pharmacological Class: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs)
- Indication: Chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
For more information, refer to:
- Goodman & Gilman’s: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 12th edition, 2011, 1616-1617.
- Accord, EMC, [Revised on Feb 2019]
- FDA Approval Documents