Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

Triumeq is a medication that contains three different types of anti-virals namely: Abacavir, Dolutegravir and Lamivudine. They work in different ways against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) by blocking the reproduction of the virus. Taking this medication regularly will reduce the level of HIV in your body which in turn protects your immune system and reduces the risk of spreading HIV infection.

How should I take or use this medication?

• Take one tablet at the same time every day.
• You may take this medication with or without food. 
• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the next usual dose. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

Write down the number of doses you have missed and inform your healthcare professional during your next visit.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are known to carry the specific gene called “HLA-B*57:01”
• You have any existing heart, liver or kidney problems
• You have Hepatitis B or C virus infection
• You have risks for heart disease such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, overweight, high blood sugar, cigarette smoking or family history of heart disease.
• You are allergic to any of the other ingredients in  this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (remove if not needed)
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling tired or weak
• Diarrhoea or stomach discomfort

These are not all the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects or experience other side effects, speak to your healthcare professional during your next appointment. However, if the symptoms are severe, do see your healthcare professional immediately.

Triumeq contains Abacavir, which may cause hypersensitivity reaction in some individuals, especially if they carry a specific gene called “HLA-B*57:01”.

• Your doctor may send you for a genetic test to see if you carry a specific gene called “HLA-B*57:01”
• Monitor closely and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Dizziness, headache
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain
  • Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Other rare but serious side effects:

• Liver problems: 
  • Dark brown urine, light coloured stools (pale grey/clay coloured)
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas):
  • Severe pain in the stomach, abdomen or back area that does not go away
  • Nausea or vomiting that does not go away
  • Fever
• Symptoms of mood changes
  • Feeling sad or hopeless
  • Feeling anxious or restless
  • Have thoughts of hurting yourself or have tried to hurt yourself

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

As your immune system improves after you start on this medication, there is a chance that infections that you are not aware of may show up. Speak to your doctor right away if you have any new signs of infections such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, weakness or shortness of breath.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Inform your doctor of all other medications that you are taking, including supplements or traditional/herbal remedies. Some medications may reduce the effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects of Triumeq. Triumeq can also affect how some other medications work. 

If you are taking any calcium- or iron- containing products such as antacids and supplements, take Triumeq 2 hours before or 6 hours after such products. If you are unable to separate them, you may take them together with food.

If you are taking any magnesium- and aluminium-containing products such as antacids and laxatives, only take Triumeq 2 hours before or 6 hours after such products.

Speak to your doctor before taking alcohol.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack the medication into a bag and bring it back to the pharmacy where you received the medication from.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated in August 2023