A patient has lamivudine-resistant hepatitis B and has been taking entecavir [Baraclude] for 2 years. The patient asks the nurse why the provider has recommended taking the drug for another year. What will the nurse tell the patient?
a. "Entecavir can reverse fibrosis and cirr-hosis of the liver when taken long term."
b. "It is necessary to continue taking enteca-vir to avoid withdrawal symptoms."
c. "The drug will be given until the infection is completely eradicated."
d. "You will need to continue taking enteca-vir to prevent lactic acidosis and hepato-toxicity."
A
Recent evidence indicates that, with long-term use (3 years), entecavir can reverse fibrosis and cirrhosis. The drug is not continued to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Patients who stop taking en-tecavir may experience acute exacerbations of hepatitis B; the disease is not eradicated. Entecavir can cause lactic acidosis and hepatotoxicity; it does not prevent these adverse effects.
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