Stavudine
Generic Name:
Stavudine
Brand Names:
Zerit
Stavudine Description:
Stavudine belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleoside analogues. The medication is used in conjunction with other antiretroviral agents to treat patients who have been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
HIV is a potentially life-threatening virus that attacks the lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help the body fight off dangerous bacteria and infection. While stavudine will not cure HIV, it inhibits the virus from reproducing and slows its progression throughout the body.
Stavudine will not prevent the transmission of HIV. Patients undergoing treatment with stavudine should be aware that they can still pass the virus on to others through unprotected sex or the sharing of needles.
Stavudine Side Effects:
The most common side effects of stavudine include:
For more information, see our stavudine side effects page.
Stavudine Uses:
Stavudine is used in combination with other medications to treat individuals who have been infected with HIV. The medication is used to prevent or prolong the onset of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can lead to a variety of fatal complications.
Stavudine Interactions:
The following medications may interact with stavudine:
- Zidovudine (Combivir, Retrovir, Trizivir)
- Ribavirin
- Interferon
Stavudine may interact with other medications or substances that are not listed above. In order to avoid potentially hazardous interactions, patients should talk with their doctor about the use of any other medicines, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with stavudine.
Stavudine Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Stavudine dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will determine the size and frequency of your dosage according to your individual needs. Patients should follow the dosage guidelines established by their doctor.
Stavudine is administered in the form of an oral capsule and an oral solution. Patients usually take the medication every 12 hours.
Missing a Dose of Stavudine
It is very important to remember to take all stavudine doses. HIV can progress quickly, even if treatment is discontinued only for a brief period of time.
If you forget to take a dose of stavudine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of stavudine to compensate for a missed dose.
Stavudine Overdose
Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they have taken too much of this medication.
Stavudine FDA Approval:
June 24, 1994
Stavudine Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Black Box Warning
Stavudine carries a black box warning informing consumers and health care professionals that the medication may place patients at risk of developing lactic acidosis and severe liver enlargement. Lactic acidosis is a potentially life-threatening condition that may be indicated by the following symptoms:
- Abnormal stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
- Severe weakness or fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms while undergoing treatment with stavudine.
Stavudine's black box warning also states the medication may place patients at risk of developing potentially fatal pancreatitis. Potential indications of pancreatitis include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Patients with a history of heavy alcoholic intake or gallstones are more likely to develop pancreatitis than others.
Recalls
In 2008, Advantage Dose LLC recalled certain lots of the stavudine-containing medication known as Zerit because the products were not in conformance with the Good Manufacturing Practices established by the FDA. The actions constituted a Class II recall.
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