The efficacy of lamivudine in Hepatitis Be Antigen (HBeAg) positive Asian patients of chronic hepatitis has been well established.The evidence in HBeAg negative patients is limited. Limited sustained response was observed post-treatment following a one year treatment period. Whether these results can be applied to patients in Iran is uncertain. This study is therefore intended to further assess the efficacy profile after two years of open treatment in the adult Iranian population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Confirmed active liver disease due to Hepatitis B virus.
• Patients must have adequate blood & liver functions.
• Female patients of child-bearing potential must be non pregnant and willing to abstain from intercourse from 2 weeks prior to administration of the first dose of study medication until 28 days after the final dose of study medication or be willing to consistently and correctly use an acceptable method of birth control.
• Patients who have serious concurrent illnesses other than hepatitis B like cancer, severe heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or AIDS will not be eligible.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Persons allergic to lamivudine or suffering from hepatitis C, D or E infection or taking alcohol will not be eligible.