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Ziagen |
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What is Ziagen and why is it prescribed? Ziagen helps to halt the inroads of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Like other anti-HIV drugs, Ziagen holds back the advance of the virus by disrupting its reproductive cycle. This medication is used only as part of a "drug cocktail" that attacks the virus on several fronts. It is not prescribed alone. Ziagen is not a cure for HIV infection or AIDS. It does not completely eliminate HIV from the body or totally restore the immune system. It is important to continue seeing your doctor for regular blood counts and tests, and to notify him immediately of any changes in your general health. How should you take Ziagen? Follow your doctors directions for taking Ziagen. It is important to keep adequate levels of Ziagen in your bloodstream at all times, so be sure to keep a supply on hand at all times and take this drug exactly as prescribed, even when you're feeling better. Ziagen may be taken with or without food. 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. Both the tablets and the oral solution may be stored at room temperature. The oral solution may also be refrigerated, but do not allow it to freeze. Are there any Ziagen side effects? Ziagen side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Ziagen side effects may include abdominal pain, chills, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, fat redistribution, fever, generally ill feeling, headache, insomnia, joint pain, loss of appetite, mouth ulcers, muscle aches, nausea, pinkeye, rash, severe blisters in the mouth and eyes, shortness of breath, skin tingling or burning, sleep disorders, sore throat, swelling, tiredness, and vomiting. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Ziagen? If Ziagen 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. If you are taking methadone, there is a slight chance that your dosage of methadone may need to be increased. Are there any special warnings about Ziagen? Be alert for development of a skin rash or two or more of the following sets of symptoms: (1) Fever, (2) Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, (3) Severe tiredness, achiness, or a generally ill feeling, or (4) Sore throat, shortness of breath, or cough. If these symptoms appear, stop taking Ziagen and call your doctor immediately. You may be experiencing a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Once you have had such a reaction, never take Ziagen again. In fact, avoid Ziagen permanently if there's even a possibility that you've had an allergic reaction. Additional doses could trigger a dangerous drop in blood pressure and other life-threatening symptoms. A severe and even fatal allergic reaction is possible when you resume taking Ziagen after an interruption in therapy, even if you have never experienced signs of an allergic reaction before. Resume Ziagen therapy only under your doctor's close supervision. Use Ziagen with caution if you have liver disease. If you are overweight or have been taking HIV drugs similar to Ziagen for a long period of time, you are more likely to develop liver problems and a complication called lactic acidosis. If you develop either of these conditions, your doctor will take you off of Ziagen. Like other HIV drugs, Ziagen sometimes causes a redistribution of body fat. |
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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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