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Home > Drug Category > Hepatitis Medications > Baraclude and Equivalent

Baraclude Information

Baraclude (Entecavir) is used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection in children 2 years and above and adults with evidence of active hepatitis B virus replication and evidence of liver damage. It is typically used in individuals whose liver is damaged but still functions properly (compensated liver disease) and in people whose liver is damaged and does not function properly (decompensated liver disease). Chronic hepatitis B is a long-lasting infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). This virus attacks the liver and can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatocellular carcinoma if not controlled. The active ingredient is entecavir, which belongs to a class of antiviral drugs known as nucleoside analogues. Entecavir works by interfering with HBV's ability to replicate. It does this by competing with the natural building blocks of viral DNA and by blocking the activity of the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase, which the virus uses to make new copies of itself. This action reduces HBV DNA levels in the blood and decreases the risk of long-term liver damage. Hepatitis B infection is not curable; however, Baraclude helps patients maintain better liver function and improves overall prognosis when taken consistently as part of long-term management. While drug resistance is a concern with most antiviral therapies that are used long-term, entecavir has what's considered a high genetic barrier to resistance in patients who haven't previously been treated with similar drugs. It means that it takes multiple genetic mutations in the virus for it to develop resistance, making it a less frequent occurrence.

Baraclude Side Effects

Some common side effects of this medication include diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, heartburn, nausea, trouble sleeping, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Body rash;
• Signs of lactic acidosis, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, shortness of breath, and weakness;
• Signs of liver damage such as right abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, yellow eyes and skin, change in color of stool and urine, and body weakness

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Baraclude Precautions

Do not use this oral medication if you are allergic to entecavir or any other ingredients in Baraclude. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• HIV Infection;
• Kidney disease;
• Lactose intolerance;
• Liver transplant;
• Other liver diseases

Do not drive or operate machines if you feel tired, sleepy, or dizzy after taking this medicine. You can still pass on hepatitis B to other people through sexual contact and blood transfer. Therefore, you should continue to take measures to prevent giving hepatitis B to other people (e.g., using condoms) while taking this medication. This medication is not suitable for use in children younger than 2 years or weighing less than 10 kg. Consult your doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This antiviral medication may interact with other drugs or substances, such as alendronate, metformin, tenofovir DF, and xanomeline/trospium. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Baraclude to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take Baraclude on an empty stomach, either two hours before or two hours after a meal. It ensures the drug absorbs correctly. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for you depending on your condition. You must continue taking Baraclude as long as your doctor tells you; stopping it abruptly can cause your hepatitis B to flare up and worsen your condition. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Baraclude?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Baraclude.