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Didanosine |
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What is Didanosine and why is it prescribed? Didanosine is one of the drugs used to fight the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Didanosine disrupts reproduction of HIV, thereby staving off the immune system's collapse. Although Didanosine can slow the progress of HIV, it is not a cure. Even if you feel better, regular physical exams and blood counts by your doctor are highly advisable. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any changes in your general health. How should you take Didanosine? Follow your doctors directions for taking Didanosine. Didanosine tablets and oral solution should be taken every 12 hours, exactly as prescribed. It is important to keep levels of the drug in your body as constant as possible, so be sure to take every scheduled dose. Didanosine should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal. For Didanosine Tablets there should be at least 2 tablets in each dose, but to avoid stomach upset, do not take more than 4 tablets per dose. Do not swallow the tablets whole. Instead, take them in one of these three ways: (1) Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing, (2) Crush the tablets before you take them or (3) Dissolve the tablets in at least 1 ounce of water, stirring until the particles are evenly dispersed. Swallow the mixture immediately. If desired, you can add 1 ounce of apple juice to the water/Didanosine mixture. This combination should be taken within 1 hour of preparation. Be sure to stir it immediately before drinking. For Buffered Powder for Oral Solution, open the packet and pour the contents into 4 ounces of water. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes, until the powder is completely dissolved. Drink the entire solution immediately. Do not mix with fruit juice. The pediatric version of Didanosine comes premixed from the pharmacy. Shake well before using. Didanosine EC Delayed Release Capsules is prescribed only when twice-daily dosing is impractical. Take 1 capsule daily on an empty stomach. Do not open the capsule. Swallow it whole. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Didanosine tablets and powder can be stored at room temperature. The pediatric oral solution should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 30 days. Are there any Didanosine side effects? Didanosine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. The higher your Didanosine dosage, the greater your chance of side effects. If you think Didanosine is causing problems, keep taking it until you've checked with your doctor. Only your doctor can determine whether the drug is at fault and adjust your dosage accordingly. More common Didanosine side effects may include abdominal pain, chills, diarrhea, fever, headache, itching, nausea, pain, rash, tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in the feet and hands, vomiting, and weakness. Less common Didanosine side effects may include allergic reactions, changes in blood sugar levels, dry mouth, dry eyes, gas, indigestion, joint pain, loss of appetite, muscle disorders, swollen glands, and vision problems. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Didanosine? If Didanosine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Alcohol increases your risk of developing serious side effects such as pancreatitis. It is especially important to check with your doctor before taking any of the following: Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum (including Maalox and Mylanta), Ganciclovir (Cytovene), IV pentamidine (Pentam), Methadone (Dolophine), or Tetracycline. It's best to avoid combining Didanosine with the gout medication Zyloprim. If you are taking Nizoral or Sporanox, you should allow at least 2 hours to pass before taking Didanosine. If you've been prescribed the HIV drugs Crixivan or Rescriptor, allow 1 hour to pass before taking Didanosine. When taking antibiotics known as quinolones, including Cipro, Floxin, and Noroxin, you should take Didanosine at least 6 hours before the antibiotic, or wait for 2 hours after it. If you have been prescribed the HIV drug Viracept, take it with a light meal 1 hour after Didanosine. Are there any special warnings about Didanosine? Didanosine can cause several serious side effects. Severe and even fatal pancreatitis is one possibility, especially if you have had the problem in the past, suffer from kidney disease, or drink alcoholic beverages. Combining Didanosine with Zerit increases the risk. Check with your doctor immediately if you develop such signs of pancreatitis as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. If you have any of the risk factors for pancreatitis, make sure the doctor is aware of it. Didanosine has also been known to cause serious and even fatal liver damage. Signs of a liver problem include weakness, fatigue, stomach discomfort, dizziness, a cold feeling, and a sudden change in heartbeat. If you develop these symptoms, stop taking Didanosine and call your doctor immediately. Also be sure to tell the doctor if you have ever had a liver problem or tend to abuse alcohol so the doctor will watch you especially closely. Didanosine can also effect the nervous system, causing changes in your eyesight or a feeling of tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands or feet. Alert your doctor immediately if you develop any of these problems. If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, you should be aware that Didanosine powder contains 1,380 milligrams of sodium per packet. Those with the hereditary disease phenylketonuria should remember that Didanosine tablets contain phenylalanine. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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