Abacavir
Ziagen (abacavir) is a prescription antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection. It belongs to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) drug class and is typically used in combination with other HIV medications as part of antiretroviral therapy (ART). This medication helps reduce the amount of HIV in the body, but it is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.
Ziagen is an HIV medication that works by inhibiting virus replication when combined with other antiretrovirals.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 221017
- Generic
- Ziagen
- 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 HIV-1 infection in adults and children, in combination with other antiretroviral agents. It is used as part of a comprehensive HIV treatment regimen.
Ziagen is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by blocking the activity of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV needs to replicate, thereby reducing viral load and allowing the immune system to recover.
Ziagen carries a boxed warning for serious hypersensitivity reactions, which can be life-threatening. Prior to starting treatment, patients should be screened for the HLA-B*5701 allele, as carriers have a higher risk of hypersensitivity. It should not be restarted after a hypersensitivity reaction. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, and fatigue.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy