Kivexa is a prescription medication used in the treatment of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), the virus responsible for causing AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). It is a combination drug, containing two active ingredients: abacavir and lamivudine. These substances belong to a class of medications known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which work by interfering with the replication process of the HIV virus, thereby slowing down the progression of the disease. Kivexa is typically used in conjunction with other antiretroviral medications as part of an antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen. It is important for patients to be tested for a genetic marker called HLA-B*5701 before starting treatment with Kivexa, as those with this marker may have a higher risk of experiencing a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir, one of the components of Kivexa.