Austavir 1mg Tablet (Entecavir) - Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold feeling especially in arms and legs, dizziness, or fast heartbeat (symptoms of lactic acidosis).
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain (signs of liver problems).
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing (signs of allergic reaction).
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs or feet (signs of kidney problems).
- Severe fatigue, confusion, or unusual bleeding or bruising.
- Worsening of hepatitis B symptoms after stopping the medicine, such as jaundice, fatigue, or nausea.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is austavir 1mg tablet used for?
This medicine contains Entecavir 1 mg, an antiviral used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus infection. It works by blocking the virus's ability to multiply in the liver, reducing liver damage. It is taken orally once daily and must be prescribed by a doctor.
- Generic Name: Entecavir
- Manufacturer: Care Formulation Labs Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 austavir 1mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एंटेकावीर 1 मिलीग्राम युक्त है और मुख्य रूप से क्रोनिक हेपेटाइटिस बी वायरस संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह वायरस के प्रजनन को रोककर लिवर को होने वाले नुकसान को कम करती है। यह दवा लिवर में वायरस की मात्रा को कम करने, लिवर के एंजाइमों को सामान्य करने और सिरोसिस तथा लिवर कैंसर के जोखिम को कम करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा एचआईवी, हेपेटाइटिस सी या अन्य वायरल संक्रमणों के लिए प्रभावी नहीं है। यह दवा डॉक्टर के पर्चे के बिना नहीं लेनी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, थकान, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना और हल्का दस्त शामिल हो सकते हैं। ये आमतौर पर अस्थायी होते हैं और दवा के अभ्यस्त होने पर कम हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन लैक्टिक एसिडोसिस (रक्त में लैक्टिक एसिड का बढ़ना) हो सकता है, जिसके लक्षणों में मांसपेशियों में दर्द, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, पेट दर्द, ठंड लगना, चक्कर आना या तेज़ धड़कन शामिल हैं। इस दवा को बंद करने से हेपेटाइटिस बी बिगड़ सकता है, इसलिए डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना दवा बंद न करें। एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को शुरू करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी किडनी या लिवर की बीमारी, गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के बारे में बताएं। यह दवा डॉक्टर के पर्चे के अनुसार ही लें, हर दिन एक ही समय पर, भोजन के साथ या बिना। खुराक न छोड़ें और डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना दवा बंद न करें। नियमित रूप से लिवर और किडनी की जांच कराएं। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे लिवर को और नुकसान हो सकता है। यदि आपको मांसपेशियों में दर्द, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या तेज़ धड़कन महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
💊 austavir 1mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection","description":"This medicine is used to treat chronic hepatitis B in adults and children aged 2 years and older with evidence of active viral replication and persistent elevations in liver enzymes or histologically active liver disease.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Compensated Liver Disease due to HBV","description":"It is indicated for patients with compensated liver disease and evidence of active HBV replication.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Decompensated Liver Disease due to HBV","description":"This medicine is used in patients with decompensated liver disease, but with close monitoring of liver and kidney function.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Prevention of HBV Recurrence after Liver Transplant","description":"It may be used to prevent recurrence of hepatitis B after liver transplantation in some patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"HIV/HBV Co-infection","description":"Sometimes used in patients co-infected with HIV and HBV, but it is not a primary HIV treatment and should be combined with other antiretrovirals.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prophylaxis in Immunocompromised Patients","description":"May be used to prevent HBV reactivation in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy or chemotherapy.","evidence":"Emerging"}]
Primary treatment for: Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Also treats: Compensated Liver Disease due to HBV, Decompensated Liver Disease due to HBV, HIV/HBV Co-infection (with appropriate antiretroviral therapy)
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Entecavir |
| Brand Name | Anticanol 0.5 Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Care Formulation Labs Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep the container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the package before use. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends entecavir as a first-line treatment for chronic hepatitis B in adults and adolescents, and as an alternative first-line treatment in children aged 2-11 years. WHO guidelines emphasize the use of potent nucleoside/nucleotide analogues with high genetic barrier to resistance, such as entecavir and tenofovir, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines for the management of hepatitis B recommend entecavir as a first-line antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B. It is recommended for patients with significant liver disease, including those with compensated or decompensated cirrhosis, and for those with evidence of active viral replication. Regular monitoring of HBV DNA, liver function, and renal function is advised. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Entecavir is a guanosine nucleoside analogue that selectively inhibits the replication of hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is phosphorylated intracellularly to its active form, entecavir triphosphate, which competes with the natural substrate deoxyguanosine triphosphate for incorporation into viral DNA by the HBV DNA polymerase. This incorporation causes chain termination and inhibits the three enzymatic activities of the viral polymerase: base priming, reverse transcription of the negative strand from the pregenomic RNA, and synthesis of the positive strand of HBV DNA. As a result, viral replication is suppressed, leading to reduced viral load and decreased liver inflammation.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take austavir 1mg tablet
Strength: This medicine is available as an immediate-release tablet containing 1 mg of entecavir. It is intended for oral administration.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The recommended dose of this medicine for adults with chronic hepatitis B and compensated liver disease is 0.5 mg once daily. For patients with decompensated liver disease or known lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B, the recommended dose is 1 mg once daily. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For patients with renal impairment, the dose should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. This medicine can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. For children aged 2 years and older, the dose is based on weight and is typically 0.015 mg/kg once daily for those with compensated liver disease, but this must be determined by a pediatrician. Safety and efficacy in children under 2 years of age have not been established. |
| Elderly Dosage | Clinical studies of entecavir did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Renal function should be monitored and dose adjusted accordingly. |
| Renal Impairment | For patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) less than 50 mL/min, the dose of this medicine should be adjusted. The recommended dose for CrCl 30-49 mL/min is 0.25 mg once daily (or 0.5 mg every 48 hours) for compensated liver disease, and 0.5 mg once daily (or 1 mg every 48 hours) for decompensated liver disease. For CrCl 10-29 mL/min, the dose is 0.15 mg once daily (or 0.5 mg every 72 hours) for compensated disease, and 0.3 mg once daily (or 1 mg every 72 hours) for decompensated disease. For CrCl less than 10 mL/min, including patients on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, the dose is 0.1 mg once daily (or 0.5 mg every 7 days) for compensated disease, and 0.2 mg once daily (or 1 mg every 7 days) for decompensated disease. These doses should be administered after dialysis. Dose adjustments must be made by a qualified clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No dosage adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment. However, patients with decompensated liver disease should be monitored closely for signs of lactic acidosis and other adverse effects. The dose for decompensated liver disease is 1 mg once daily. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose of this medicine is 1 mg once daily for adults with decompensated liver disease or lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B. For compensated liver disease, the maximum daily dose is 0.5 mg. Doses higher than 1 mg daily have not been studied and are not recommended. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of austavir 1mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Nephrotoxic drugs | Major | |
| Lamivudine | Moderate | |
| Adefovir | Moderate | |
| Tenofovir | Moderate | |
| NSAIDs | Moderate | |
| Cyclosporine | Major | |
| Aminoglycosides | Major | |
| Amphotericin B | Major | |
| Alcohol | Moderate | |
| Food | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cyclosporine, NSAIDs)
- Drugs that reduce renal function (e.g., tenofovir, adefovir)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Lamivudine
- Adefovir
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because both alcohol and hepatitis B can damage the liver. Alcohol may increase the risk of liver complications and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. If you have a history of alcohol abuse, discuss with your doctor before starting this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to entecavir or any component of the formulation.","Not recommended for use in patients with HIV infection who are not receiving effective antiretroviral therapy, due to risk of HIV resistance."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues alone or in combination with antiretrovirals. Female sex, obesity, and prolonged nucleoside exposure may be risk factors. Use with caution in patients with known risk factors for liver disease.","Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B have been reported in patients who have discontinued anti-hepatitis B therapy, including entecavir. Hepatic function should be monitored closely for several months after discontinuation. If appropriate, resumption of anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted.","Patients should be advised that treatment with entecavir has not been shown to reduce the risk of transmission of HBV to others through sexual contact or blood contamination. Appropriate precautions should be taken.","Renal impairment: Dose adjustment is required for patients with creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min.","Co-infection with HIV: Entecavir should not be used as monotherapy in HIV/HBV co-infected patients due to the risk of HIV resistance. It should be used in combination with effective antiretroviral therapy.","Use in pediatric patients: Safety and efficacy in children under 2 years of age have not been established.","Use in elderly: Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Dose selection should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether entecavir is excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
💊 Overdose Management
There is limited information on the effects of entecavir overdose. In case of overdose, monitor the patient for signs of toxicity and provide supportive care. Entecavir is not significantly removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Symptomatic treatment and close monitoring are recommended. Contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately if overdose is suspected.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember if it is less than 12 hours since your scheduled dose. If it is almost time for your next dose (more than 12 hours late), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Additional Safety Advice
Before starting this medicine, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease (especially decompensated liver disease), or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed, and it may pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have the same symptoms. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed, at the same time each day, with or without food. Do not skip doses or stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, as this can cause your hepatitis B to become worse. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is less than 12 hours since your scheduled dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. Regular blood tests to monitor liver function, kidney function, and viral load are important while on this medicine. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or rapid heartbeat, as these could be signs of a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may have decreased renal function, which can affect the elimination of this medicine. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on creatinine clearance. Elderly patients should be monitored closely for side effects and kidney function. Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine. This medicine is Pregnancy Category C, and its safety during pregnancy is not well established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks. Effective contraception is recommended while taking this medicine unless you and your doctor decide otherwise.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, continue taking this medicine as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine. Monitor for signs of infection or liver problems. If you are unable to take oral medications after surgery, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. There is no specific contraindication, but maintaining good oral hygiene is important. If you have bleeding problems or are on other medications, your dentist may take extra precautions.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Moderate exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine, but if you experience fatigue, dizziness, or muscle pain, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor. Patients with decompensated liver disease should follow their doctor's advice regarding physical activity.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal daily activities, but if you feel unwell, take rest and consult your doctor. The medicine should not affect your ability to work, but regular medical appointments may require time off.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause a severe flare-up of hepatitis B, which can lead to liver failure. Your doctor will decide when and if it is safe to stop, based on your viral load, liver function, and overall health. If you must stop, your doctor will monitor your liver function closely for several months.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and effective for suppressing hepatitis B virus. However, it requires regular monitoring of liver function, kidney function, and viral load. Resistance to entecavir can develop, especially in patients with prior lamivudine resistance, so periodic testing is important. Long-term use may also be associated with a small risk of lactic acidosis and renal impairment. Patients should remain under regular medical supervision and not stop the medicine without advice.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Another first-line antiviral for chronic hepatitis B, with similar efficacy and low resistance.
Evidence: Well-establishedAn injectable immune modulator that can be used for a finite treatment course, but with more side effects.
Evidence: Well-establishedAn older antiviral, but with high resistance rates and less preferred.
Evidence: EstablishedAvoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular monitoring can complement antiviral therapy.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Patients with chronic hepatitis B should receive vaccinations against hepatitis A and other recommended vaccines. This medicine does not interact with vaccines, but live vaccines should be avoided if you are immunocompromised. Consult your doctor for personalized vaccination advice.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate or freeze.
✅ DO
Keep the container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink.
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers.
✅ DO
Check the expiry date before use.
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or exposure to extreme temperatures. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If crossing time zones, continue taking your dose at the same interval as prescribed; you may need to adjust the timing gradually. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Carry enough supply for your entire trip and a few extra days in case of delays.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts reducing hepatitis B virus levels within a few weeks, but it may take several months to see significant improvement in liver enzymes. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed.
A: No, you should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause a severe flare-up of hepatitis B, which can be life-threatening.
A: If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours since your scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: This medicine is Pregnancy Category C, meaning risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under medical supervision. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
A: It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and may reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
A: This medicine may interact with nephrotoxic drugs and other antivirals. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
A: Serious side effects include lactic acidosis (muscle pain, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat), severe liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine), and allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these.
A: Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for austavir 1mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
entarica 1mg tabletFibrica Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹729.65 40.4% CHEAPER
-
baraclude 1mg tabletBMS India Pvt Ltd ₹1,184.33 3.3% CHEAPER
-
entavir 1mg tabletCipla Ltd ₹1,240.85 1.3% COSTLIER
-
enteca 1 tabletSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹1,470.00 20% COSTLIER
-
entaliv 1mg tabletDr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd ₹2,331.42 90.3% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure hepatitis B completely.
Fact: This medicine suppresses the hepatitis B virus but does not cure the infection. It reduces viral load and liver damage, but long-term treatment is often needed. - Myth: I can stop taking this medicine once my liver enzymes are normal.
Fact: Stopping this medicine without medical advice can cause a severe flare-up of hepatitis B, which can be life-threatening. Always consult your doctor before stopping. - Myth: This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy without any risk.
Fact: This medicine is Pregnancy Category C, meaning risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under medical supervision. - Myth: This medicine can be taken with alcohol without any problems.
Fact: Alcohol can worsen liver damage and should be avoided while taking this medicine. - Myth: This medicine is effective against all types of hepatitis.
Fact: This medicine is only effective against hepatitis B virus. It is not effective against hepatitis A, C, or E.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Entecavir 1 mg Tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Austavir 1mg Tablet
- Baraclude 1mg Tablet
- Entavir 1mg Tablet