Lamivudine (3TC)

Lamivudine (3TC) In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• A nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that inhibits viral replication.

Uses of Lamivudine (3TC)

• Treatment of FIV-positive cats.

Dose of Lamivudine (3TC) in Dogs and Cats

Cats:

• 25 mg/kg p.o. q12h.

Dogs:

• Not applicable.

Side Effects of Lamivudine (3TC) in Dogs and Cats

• Unknown, but cytopenias can be predicted.

Contraindications of Lamivudine (3TC) in Dogs and Cats

• Anaemia.

Some Notes:

• Unknown, but cytopenias can be predicted.
• In cats not showing clinical signs, it may delay the onset of the clinical phase.
• In cats showing clinical signs, it may improve recovery in combination with other therapies.
• Lamivudine (3TC) when combined with zidovudine seems to be more effective at reducing viral load and increasing CD4/CD8 ratios over a 1-year period than
  zidovudine on its own.
• These studies used small numbers of cats.
• Haematological monitoring is recommended.