| Medication Name | Tyzeka |
| Generic Name | Telbivudine |
| Boxed/Label Warning | **WARNING:** Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues, including telbivudine. Hepatitis B exacerbation may occur after discontinuation of treatment. |
| Purpose | Antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits HBV DNA polymerase by competing with the natural substrate, resulting in chain termination after incorporation into viral DNA. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | 600 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Once daily, as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Fatigue, headache, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal pain, diarrhea. |
| Serious Side Effects | Lactic acidosis, severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, myopathy, peripheral neuropathy, hepatitis B exacerbation upon discontinuation. |
| Drug Interactions | Peginterferon alfa, lamivudine, adefovir dipivoxil, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Caution with other medications affecting renal function. |
| Important Notes | Monitor liver function regularly. Do not discontinue without consulting a healthcare provider, as hepatitis B exacerbation may occur. May cause myopathy, monitor for muscle pain or weakness. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Entecavir (Baraclude), Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread), Adefovir dipivoxil (Hepsera), Lamivudine (Epivir-HBV). |