Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Dolutegravir/Lamivudine as a single pill

Dolutegravir inhibits HIV integrase to prevent viral DNA integration into the host genome, while lamivudine inhibits reverse transcriptase to block HIV replication.

Dolutegravir inhibits HIV integrase to prevent viral DNA integration into the host genome, while lamivudine inhibits reverse transcriptase to block HIV replication. Used for HIV-1 infection in treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced adults, HIV-1 infection as a maintenance therapy.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Dolutegravir is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that binds to HIV integrase and prevents the integration of viral DNA into the host chromosome, a critical step in HIV replication. Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that blocks the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing conversion of viral RNA to DNA. Together, these agents provide dual antiretroviral activity against HIV-1.

Approved indications

• HIV-1 infection in treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced adults
• HIV-1 infection as a maintenance therapy

Common side effects

• Insomnia
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Fatigue

Key clinical trials

• Switch to Dolutegravir Plus Lamivudine Dual-Therapy in Transgender Women Living With HIV on Virologically Suppressive Antiretroviral Therapy (TRANS-SWITCH) (PHASE4)
• DTG/3TC vs. BIC/FTC/TAF Maintenance Therapy in People Living With HIV: (PHASE4)
• Impact of Extremely Early Antiretroviral Therapy to Reduce VIral REservoir and Induce Functional CURE of HIV-1 Infection (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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