Stavudine



ZeritŪ







Stavudine

(STAV yoo deen)

U.S. Brand Names
ZeritŪ
Canadian Brand Names
ZeritŪ
Mexican Brand Names
ZeritŪ
Pharmacologic Category
Antiretroviral Agent, Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (Nucleoside)
What key warnings should I know about before taking this medicine?
  • This medicine may cause liver damage and a change in the acid levels in the blood. Closely review the section in this leaflet which lists when to call healthcare provider. Pregnant females may be at a high risk of developing a change in acid levels when taking stavudine and didanosine together.
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to stavudine or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat HIV infection.
How does it work?
  • Stavudine works to injure the virus and fight the infection.
How is it best taken?
  • This medicine is usually taken with at least two other medicines.
  • Use prescription as directed, even if feeling better.
  • Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • A liquid (solution) is available if you cannot swallow pills. Shake well before use.
  • Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
  • Do not change dose or stop medicine. Talk with healthcare provider.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • Do not run out of this medicine.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Limit alcohol intake (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
  • To protect against sexually-transmitted diseases, use a latex condom.
  • Use birth control that you can trust to prevent pregnancy in HIV disease.
  • Breast-feeding is not recommended in HIV disease.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Anemia and low white blood cell count.
  • Headache.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Diarrhea.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Check blood work regularly. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you are pregnant and taking didanosine and stavudine, check blood work (liver function, acid levels). Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Numbness or tingling of hands or feet.
  • Severe belly pain.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store capsules at room temperature.
  • Protect capsules from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
  • Store liquid (solution) in a refrigerator. Throw away any unused portion after 1 month.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: