What does it do?

Dolutegravir and lamivudine is used to control HIV.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or hepatitis B.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take dolutegravir and lamivudine as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.
It is very important to take dolutegravir and lamivudine regularly. If you often forget to take it, it may not work as well.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with dolutegravir and lamivudine including:

• products containing aluminium, calcium, iron or magnesium, such as antacids (e.g. Mylanta®) or multivitamins
• orlistat (Xenical®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing Severe stomach pain, nausea	Tell your doctor immediately
Headache, tiredness or weakness, trouble sleeping Stomach upset	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• You will need regular blood tests while taking dolutegravir and lamivudine to check if it is causing problems with your liver. You will also need blood tests to check your viral load.
• As your HIV comes under control, your immune system begins to recover. It may start fighting infections better than before which may make you unwell for a while. Your doctor may call this Immune Reconstitution Syndrome.
• Treatment for HIV may change your body shape. These changes can include fat build-up, fat loss, or both. Discuss this with your doctor.
• Do not stop taking dolutegravir and lamivudine without talking to your doctor first.