Dipanosine (Ddl)
Brand name Videx
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Didanosine is an antiviral agent used in the treatment of AIDS. Like zidovudine (AZT), it works by blocking the action of the reverse transcriptase enzyme.
Didanosine delays the progression of AIDS by temporarily boosting immunity, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of infections, and by helping AIDS patients to gain weight. However, not a cure for HIV infection, and patients may continue to be afflicted by the illnesses that are associated with AIDS.
Didanosine is generally reserved for those who do not respond to AZT or who are intolerant of it.
The major adverse effects of this drug are pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and peripheral neuropathy (impaired function of the nerves in the hands and feet).
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Chewable/dispersible tablets. Tablets should not be swallowed whole: they should be thoroughly chewed, crushed, or dispersed in water before swallowing.
Frequency and timing of doses
Adults Every 12 hours on an empty stomach.
Adult dosage range
250-400mg daily.
Onset of effect
Usually within 48 hours.
Duration of action
8-12 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 4 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. Large overdoses may cause diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Notify your doctor immediately.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The major adverse effects are pancreatitis and peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of pancreatitis include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include tingling, burning, pain, or numbness in hands or feet.
INTERACTIONS
General note A wide range of drugs may increase the harmful effects or decrease the absorption of didanosine. Obtain full information from your doctor.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Antiviral drug for AIDS
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You are taking any other drugs to treat
AIDS or AIDS complications. You have long-term liver, kidney, or respiratory
problems.
You have raised uric acid levels.
You have had pancreatitis.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
Not recommended. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended under
6 months of age. Safety in children not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may therefore be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
No special problems.
Alcohol
Avoid. May increase the possibility of adverse effects.
PROLONGED USE
The long-term effects of didanosine are unknown at this time. Didanosine therapy has not been shown to reduce the risk of transmission of HIV to others through sexual contact or blood contamination.
Monitoring
Regular blood checks and liver function tests are required during treatment
Eye examinations may be recommended.
