Entehep 0.5 Mg Tablet (30 Tab)

ENTEHEP 0.5 MG TABLET

ENTEHEP 0.5 MG TABLET, manufactured by Cadila Healthcare Ltd. (Zydus), is an antiviral medication prescribed for the management of chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It aims to suppress viral replication and minimize liver damage.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Entehep 0.5 Tablet
  • Common Name: Entecavir (0.5 mg)

• Composition: Each tablet contains 0.5 mg of Entecavir, which is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). Entecavir works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme, which is crucial for the Hepatitis B virus to multiply in liver cells, thereby reducing the viral load and improving liver function.

• Uses: ENTEHEP 0.5 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults and children over 2 years of age who exhibit signs of active viral multiplication and liver damage. It helps to control the infection and may improve the immune system's response.

• Dosage and Administration: The typical dosage for adults and adolescents is 0.5 mg once daily. It should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably at least 2 hours before or after a meal, and at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not broken, crushed, or chewed.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, extreme tiredness (fatigue), insomnia (difficulty sleeping), diarrhea, indigestion, and elevated liver enzymes.
  • Serious: Lactic acidosis (a rare but serious buildup of lactic acid in the blood, more common in overweight women) and severe acute exacerbation of HBV infection if treatment is discontinued suddenly.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you have allergies to Entecavir or any other ingredients.
  • Not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
  • Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver problems; dose adjustments may be necessary.
  • If co-infected with HIV, treatment for HIV should be initiated before or concurrently with Entehep to prevent resistance to anti-HIV medications.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor, and effective contraception is advised during treatment.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it can worsen liver damage.
  • This medicine may cause dizziness or sleepiness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if affected.
  • Contains lactose, which may cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance.

• Storage: Store ENTEHEP 0.5 MG TABLET in its original packaging at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about ENTEHEP 0.5 MG TABLET (30 TAB):

What is Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet used for?

Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults and children over 2 years of age. It is prescribed when there are signs of active viral multiplication and liver damage. It can also be used to prevent hepatitis B recurrence after liver transplantation.

How does Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet work?

This medicine contains Entecavir as its active ingredient. It works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme, which is crucial for the hepatitis B virus to multiply in liver cells. By preventing viral replication, it reduces the amount of the virus in the body and helps improve liver function and reduce liver damage.

What is the usual dosage for Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet?

Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet is typically taken once daily. It should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after a meal, as food can reduce its absorption and effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's prescribed dose and duration; do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, indigestion, lack of sleep (insomnia), vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can lead to more serious conditions like lactic acidosis, characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It may also cause serious liver problems like hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver) and steatosis (increased fat in the liver).

Is Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a doctor, as animal studies indicate potential harm to the developing baby. Women of childbearing age taking this medicine are advised to use effective contraceptive methods. Breastfeeding: It is generally advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet, as it is unknown if the medicine passes into breast milk and could potentially harm the baby.

Can Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional, vitamin, and herbal supplements you are taking. Co-administration with Lamivudine is not recommended. Taking it with Tenofovir may increase the risk of kidney toxicity. If you are co-infected with HIV and not on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), taking Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet may impact the efficacy of both medicines.

What precautions should be taken while using Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet?

Do not discontinue the medication abruptly, as this can worsen your hepatitis B infection. Regular blood tests and liver function monitoring are essential during treatment. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase liver damage and side effects like dizziness. This medicine may cause dizziness or sleepiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet be stored?

Store Entehep 0.5 MG Tablet in its original packaging at room temperature. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture, and ensure it is out of the sight and reach of children.