When working with entecavir, a potent nucleoside analogue used to suppress hepatitis B virus replication. Also known as Baraclude, it belongs to the class of drugs that directly block the viral polymerase, lowering viral load and slowing liver damage.
The primary goal of any hepatitis B therapy is to keep the Hepatitis B, a chronic liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) under control. EntECAVIR targets the virus by mimicking natural nucleotides, which forces the viral polymerase to make mistakes and halt replication. This drug is one of several nucleoside analogs, synthetic compounds that resemble the building blocks of viral DNA used in chronic HBV treatment, alongside tenofovir and lamivudine.
Because hepatitis B can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer, doctors monitor viral load, the amount of HBV DNA in the bloodstream regularly. A sustained drop in viral load usually means the medication is doing its job. However, long‑term use can lead to antiviral resistance, mutations in the virus that reduce the drug’s effectiveness. Resistance is less common with entecavir than with older drugs, but it’s still a factor clinicians consider when choosing a regimen.
Patients typically start with a daily 0.5 mg dose, which may increase to 1 mg if the virus is already resistant to other nucleoside analogues. The medication is taken on an empty stomach to improve absorption, and regular blood tests check liver enzymes, kidney function, and viral load. Side effects are usually mild—headache, fatigue, or occasional nausea—but severe reactions like lactic acidosis are rare and require immediate medical attention.
In practice, entecavir works best when combined with lifestyle advice: avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, and get vaccinated against hepatitis A to protect the liver further. For special groups such as pregnant women or patients with kidney impairment, dose adjustments are necessary, and a healthcare professional should guide the process.
Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dive deeper into each of these topics – from detailed drug comparisons and resistance management to practical tips for living with chronic hepatitis B. Explore the posts to get the full picture and make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
12 Oct
Compare Epivir HBV (Lamivudine) with tenofovir, entecavir and other alternatives, covering efficacy, resistance, safety, cost and how to choose the right treatment.
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