Viral clearance occurs through induction of immune mediated killing of infected hepatocytes. Transient hepatitis can therefore occasionally cause severe decompensation requiring liver transplantation. Lamivudine is a nucleoside analogue that is a potent inhibitor of hepatitis B viral DNA replication. It has a good safety profile and has been widely tested in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection, mainly in the Far East. There was an associated improvement of inflammation and a reduction in progression of fibrosis on liver biopsy.
Side effects are generally mild.
Combination therapy with interferon and lamivudine has not been found to have additional benefit.