Didanosine Tablet, for suspension and Zerit

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Using didanosine together with stavudine can increase the blood levels or add to the side effects of either medication. Talk with your doctor before using these medications together. Call the doctor if you have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain/distention, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, numbness, tingling, and pain in hands and feet. You may need a dose adjustment or special test if you take both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

MONITOR CLOSELY: The concomitant use of the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), didanosine (ddI) and stavudine (d4T), has been associated with an increased risk of certain toxicities related to mitochondrial damage, and the addition of hydroxyurea to the combination may further increase that risk. Specifically, concurrent use of ddI and d4T has been associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis, several cases of which have been fatal. Additionally, the risk and severity of NRTI-related peripheral neuropathy may be additively or synergistically increased. Although rare, the syndrome of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis (with or without pancreatitis) may also occur more frequently with this combination than with antiretroviral regimens containing either drug alone or other combinations of NRTIs. Fatal lactic acidosis has been reported in pregnant women receiving ddI and d4T with other antiretroviral agents, although it is unclear if pregnancy is a specific risk factor.

MANAGEMENT: Close observation for signs and symptoms of toxicity is recommended if ddI and d4T must be used together, particularly in patients with advanced HIV disease and/or elderly patients. Both drugs should be suspended if pancreatitis is suspected, and ddI discontinued permanently if pancreatitis is confirmed. Reinstitution of d4T, if necessary, should be undertaken with caution following recovery. Prompt withdrawal of these drugs is also essential in patients who develop peripheral neuropathy to avoid irreversible damage. Therapy may be reinstituted following resolution of neuropathy symptoms, but reduced dosages are recommended. Likewise, treatment should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity, and permanent discontinuation considered if the syndrome is confirmed. In pregnant women, the manufacturers recommend that the combination of ddI and d4T be used with caution and only if potential benefit clearly outweighs the risks. Patients should be advised to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of toxicity occur such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain/distention, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, tachypnea, dyspnea, motor weakness, numbness, tingling, and pain in hands and feet.

Didanosine Tablet, for suspension

Generic Name: didanosine

Brand name: Videx, Videx EC

Synonyms: Didanosine

What is Didanosine Tablet, for suspension?

Zerit

Generic Name: stavudine

Brand name: Zerit, Zerit XR

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Zerit?