What is/are Videx EC?DIDANOSINE, ddI is an antiretroviral drug. It is used with other medicines to treat HIV. This medicine is not a cure for HIV. It will not stop the spread of HIV to others. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
gout
if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
kidney disease
liver disease
pancreatitis
tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
an unusual or allergic reaction to didanosine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food. Do not chew or crush. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. For your anti-HIV therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine even if you feel better. Skipping doses may make the HIV virus resistant to this medicine and other medicines. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others. What if I miss a dose?If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What may interact with this medicine?Do not take this medicine with the following medication:
zalcitabine, ddC
This medicine may also interact with the following:
allopurinol
delavirdine
ganciclovir
hydroxyurea
indinavir
itraconazole
ketoconazole
methadone
ribavirin
some antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline
stavudine, d4T
tenofovir
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine. What side effects may I notice from this medicine?Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in vision
nausea, vomiting, unusual stomach upset or pain
tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
dry mouth or eyes
headache
heartburn or gas
loss of appetite
muscle pain
skin rash
weight gain around waist, back, or thinning of face, arms, legs
This list may not describe all possible side effects. What should I watch for while using this medicine?Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor. You will need to have important blood work done while on this medicine. HIV is spread to others through sexual or blood contact. Talk to your doctor about how to stop the spread of HIV. Do not treat severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting with over-the-counter medicines. Contact your doctor. Alcohol can increase the risk of developing severe side effects when taken with this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks. Where should I keep this medicine?Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
|
