Generic Ziagen

Common use



Ziagen is a brand name of abacavir sulphate which is prescribed as an effective means of HIV treatment. This drug can be taken by adults and children. Be sure to consult a specialist before using Ziagen.

These tablets are indicated for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. Their effect is stronger when they are taken in combination with other antiretroviral medications. Ziagen is one of many medicines containing abacavir sulphate. It helps to struggle against HIV which damages the immune system. It is usually used as an additional drug with the whole complex of means helping to treat HIV.



Dosage and direction



It is worth mentioning that Ziagen can be taken with or without food. Adults should take 600 mg of the medication daily. The drug works better with other antiretroviral agents. You can divide your dose in two portions: 300 mg twice a day. Children should take 8 mg / kg twice a day. The maximum dosage makes up 600 mg per day.



Precautions



The medication includes ingredients which can cause allergenic reactions. Abacavir can provoke heart attacks and other problems with heart that is why you should consult your doctor and take pills cautiously if you have some problems with heart.



Contraindications



You should not take Ziagen pills if you are allergic to the active component of the drug or any other additional ingredients. Moderate or severe liver disease is also a strict contraindication. If you are not sure whether you can take this drug, please consult your doctor beforehand. Ziagen may not be suitable for pregnant women and breast feeding mothers because treatment requires special monitoring.



Possible side effect



Ziagen can evoke several side effects. If you happen to notice some of them you should stop taking the medication and consult your physician. The most common side effects are: fever, rash, nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, general tiredness, body aches, shortness of breath, cough and sore throat.



Drug interaction



In case you are taking other prescribed medication you should visit your physician and discuss all possible drug interactions. All medicines that you use can interact with Ziagen. Do not take them without consulting a specialist. It is usually normally assimilated with other medicines of this kind.



Missed dose



If you missed a dose of Ziagen you should take it as soon as possible. Do not take two doses within a short period of time. It is better to miss the necessary dose and take the next one instead of doubling it. Make a personal schedule helping you remember the time of the dosage to be taken.



Overdose



If you took a large amount of drugs and feel severe side effects you should refer to your doctor for further help. Make sure you keep to the prescription and do not violate the dosage indicated by your doctor.



Storage



Ziagen must be stored at a room temperature at 20°C - 25°C. Do not cool the tablets below the temperatures indicated and make sure you keep them away from children and pets.



Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)