Testing of HLA-B*57:01 is recommended prior to the initiation of this anti-retroviral agent

Ref. KDT. Page.  808 Abacavir It is a potent ARV drug that acts after intracellular conversion to carbovir triphosphate. Resistance to ABC develops slowly Its oral bioavailability is 80% and it is mainly eliminated by metabolism. The plasma t1⁄2 is 1–1.5 hour, but intracellular t1⁄2 of active metabolite is >12 hours. Hypersensitivity reactions such as rashes, fever, flu-like symptoms are the major problems. To avoid anaphylactic reactions in response to the drug HLA-B*57:01  testing is mandatory pre-treatment. Avoidance of alcohol is advised.