Adefovir
Hepsera (adefovir dipivoxil) is a prescription antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus infection in adults. It works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase, which helps reduce the amount of hepatitis B virus in the body. This medication is typically prescribed when other hepatitis B treatments are not suitable or have not been effective.
Hepsera is an antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection in adults.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 342285
- Generic
- Hepsera
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection in adults with evidence of active viral replication and either persistent elevations in serum aminotransferases (ALT or AST) or histologically active disease.
Hepsera is a nucleotide analog that is converted to its active form, adefovir, inside cells. It competitively inhibits the hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase and reverse transcriptase enzymes, blocking viral DNA synthesis and replication.
May cause kidney toxicity; renal function should be monitored regularly. Not recommended for patients with HIV co-infection unless on appropriate antiretroviral therapy. Should not be discontinued abruptly as hepatitis may worsen. Common side effects include weakness, headache, nausea, and abdominal pain. May develop viral resistance with prolonged use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy