Adefovir dipivoxil is marketed in the United States with the brand name Hepsera. Your physician may prescribe Hepsera for you if you are a chronic sufferer of the hepatitis B viral infection also known as HBV. The Mayo Clinic reports the drug may help to reduce the level of HBV in your system, and it may make it harder for the virus to reproduce. The drug may be administered as a pill.
Asthenia
The most common side effect of Hepsera in clinical trials, RxList.com reports, is asthenia-- general bodily weakness. This may make you feel the same as if you have a severe cold or flu or as if you have just performed strenuous physical activities, such as exercising or manual labor. This occurred in approximately 13 percent of those involved in the studies. The Mayo Clinic lists this as a common serious side effect, along with tiredness. As such, it should be reported to your physician immediately.
Waste Product Discoloration
Hepsera also may induce serious common side effects that will change the color of your urine and stools. Your urine may appear dark, while your stools may have a lighter-than-normal color to them. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice this side effect.
Nausea and Pain
Taking Hepsera can induce problems with your stomach and abdomen. For example, you may feel nauseous, and this may be followed by throwing up. The medicine also may induce pain in the upper portion of your abdominal area on the right side. You also may experience pain in your stomach. These serious side effects require medical attention immediately.
Jaundice
Hepsera works to fight HBV, which affects your liver. A malfunction of your liver induced by the medication can cause certain cells in your blood to show yellow through your skin or in the white portion of your eyes. This condition, known as jaundice, is serious. Tell your physician immediately.
Flu-Like Side Effects
When you begin to take Hepsera, you may notice some side effects that are similar to those associated with the flu. For example, you may get diarrhea for a few days. You also may have a headache, a cough and a sore throat. These side effects will be temporary and are not serious in most people, according to Drugs.com. Contact your doctor, however, if these symptoms persist a week or more.
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