Telbivudine is classified as a nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI).
It specifically targets the hepatitis B virus, reducing viral load in infected individuals.
Resistance to telbivudine can develop, often due to mutations in the HBV polymerase gene.
Common side effects include fatigue, headache, and elevated levels of creatine kinase.
It is important to monitor liver function and kidney function during treatment with telbivudine.
Review Questions
What type of medication is telbivudine, and what infection does it treat?
How does telbivudine work at the molecular level to inhibit HBV?
What are some common side effects associated with telbivudine treatment?
Related terms
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): A DNA virus that causes liver infection leading to both acute and chronic disease.
Nucleoside Analogue Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs): A class of antiviral drugs that inhibit viral replication by incorporating into viral DNA.
Lamivudine: Another NRTI used to treat chronic hepatitis B infections and HIV.