What is Stavudine? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Stavudine

• Capsule: Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Ask your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of any leftover capsules after you have finished your treatment.

• Do not stop using this medicine without checking first with your doctor. If you stop the medicine even for a short time, the virus may become harder to treat. Contact your doctor or pharmacist when your supply is running low so you do not run out.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. Shake the bottle of medicine well just before you measure each dose.

• Stavudine is taken with other medicines to treat HIV infection. Take all other medicines your doctor has prescribed as part of your combination treatment.

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Allow at least 12 hours between doses.

• Oral liquid: Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after 30 days, but do not throw it in the trash. Ask your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of medicine you do not use.

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Stavudine is taken with other medicines to treat HIV infection. Take all other medicines your doctor has prescribed as part of your combination treatment.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. Shake the bottle of medicine well just before you measure each dose.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Oral liquid: Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after 30 days, but do not throw it in the trash. Ask your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of medicine you do not use.

• Capsule: Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Ask your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of any leftover capsules after you have finished your treatment.

• Do not stop using this medicine without checking first with your doctor. If you stop the medicine even for a short time, the virus may become harder to treat. Contact your doctor or pharmacist when your supply is running low so you do not run out.

• Allow at least 12 hours between doses.

What to do if you miss a dose of Stavudine

Stavudine contraindications - Who shouldn't take Stavudine?

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to stavudine.

Stavudine warnings

• This medicine may cause the following problems: Lactic acidosis (too much acid in the blood)Liver problemsPeripheral neuropathy (nerve problem)Pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas)

• Your immune system may get stronger when you start taking HIV medicines. This could cause a hidden infection in your body to become active. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your health.

• This medicine will not keep you from giving HIV to others. Always practice safe sex, even if your partner also has HIV. Do not share needles or other items that may have blood or body fluids on them.

• Do not breastfeed. You can spread HIV or AIDS to your baby through your breast milk.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, pancreas problems, gallstones, diabetes, or a history of nerve problems.

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Stavudine interactions & what to avoid when taking Stavudine

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

• Your immune system may get stronger when you start taking HIV medicines. This could cause a hidden infection in your body to become active. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your health.

• This medicine will not keep you from giving HIV to others. Always practice safe sex, even if your partner also has HIV. Do not share needles or other items that may have blood or body fluids on them.

• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

• Some medicines can affect how stavudine works. Tell your doctor if you are using doxorubicin, hydroxyurea, interferon, ribavirin, or zidovudine.

• Do not use this medicine together with didanosine.