Stavudine, d4T capsules
What do stavudine capsules do?
STAVUDINE, d4T (Zerit(R)) is used for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Stavudine belongs to a class of anti-HIV medicines called nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Stavudine can slow down the damage caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and delay the symptoms of advanced HIV infection. Stavudine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS.
What should my health care professional know before I take stavudine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• If you frequently drink alcohol-containing beverages
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• an unusual or allergic reaction to stavudine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take stavudine capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow capsules with a drink of water. Stavudine can be taken with or without 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 stavudine?
• didanosine, ddI
• probenecid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines 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 stavudine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• severe stomach or abdominal pain
• signs of low platelet counts such as unusual bleeding or bruising
• signs of low red blood cell counts such as increased tiredness or weakness
• signs of an infection such as fever, chills or sore throat
More common:
• tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• difficulty sleeping
• headache
• loss of appetite
• muscle and joint pain
• stomach upset
• skin rash, itching