Zerit is used in the treatment of the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Zerit will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps to keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Stavudine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medicine may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
Zerit may cause some serious side effects, including peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include tingling, burning, numbness, and pain in the hands or feet. Check with your doctor if any new health problems or symptoms occur while you are taking stavudine . |
| What are the recommended dosage for the medicine? |
ADULTS
For adults weighing 132 pounds or more, the usual dose is 40 milligrams every 12 hours. For those under 132 pounds, the dose is 30 milligrams every 12 hours.
CHILDREN
The usual starting dose for children weighing less than 66 pounds is 1 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight every 12 hours. Children weighing 66 pounds or more should take the adult dose.
Dosage is often reduced for people with kidney problems. |
What are the side effects of this medicine? |
| The most common side effect of this medication is peripheral neuropathy (nerve disorder). Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are numbness, tingling, burning or pain of the hands or feet. Consult your doctor if you develop any of these. Headache, diarrhea or nausea or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor if any of these serious side effects occur: chills, fever, sore throat, itch, rash, changes in body fat, muscle aches, trouble sleeping, unusual bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes and skin, dark urine, rapid breathing. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. |
| There have been other side effects noted in patients receiving NORVIR; however, have been due to other medicines that patients were taking or to the illness effects can be serious. If you have questions about side effects, ask your doctor, should report any new or persistent symptoms to your doctor immediately. |
What are the precautions used while taking this medication |
| Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver diseases, pancreatitis, nerve disease, heart disease, major injury/surgery/infection, alcohol usage, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in human breast milk. Avoid breast-feeding in order to protect the newborn from possible HIV transmission. |
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