Didanosine, ddI tablets
What do didanosine, ddI, tablets do?
DIDANOSINE, ddI (Videx(R)) is used for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Didanosine belongs to a class of anti-HIV medicines called nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Didanosine can slow down the damage caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and delay the symptoms of advanced HIV infection. Didanosine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS.
What should my health care professional know before I take didanosine, ddI?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• frequently drink alcoholic beverages
• gout
• high cholesterol
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• pancreatitis
• phenylketonuria
• tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• an unusual or allergic reaction to didanosine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take didanosine tablets by mouth; you should take at least 2 tablets for each dose. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Didanosine tablets must be thoroughly chewed or crushed and swallowed with a drink of water, or disolved in water. To disolve, add 2 tablets to at least 1 ounce (30 ml) of water. Stir until the tablets disolve, then drink immediately. If you would like more flavor, you may further mix the solution with 1 ounce (30 ml) of clear apple juice and then drink. Take didanosine tablets on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food; do not take with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with didanosine, ddI?
• alcohol
• antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium
• certain antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin or tetracyclines)
• delaviradine
• ganciclovir
• hydroxyurea
• indinavir
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• stavudine, d4T
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines that you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking didanosine, ddI?
Other drugs you are taking with didanosine may affect the severity and occurance of side effects you experience. Not all the side effects listed occur in everyone. If you notice an unusual side effect, contact your health care provider.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• changes in your eye sight
• fever or chills, sore throat
• nausea and vomiting
• stomach pain
• tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet
• rash, itching
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• dry mouth or eyes
• gas
• headache
• heartburn
• muscle and joint pain
• stomach upset