Zerit (30 mg, 40 mg)

Zerit is generically called as stavudine. It is a synthetic analogue of thymidine nucleoside showing its action against the HIV- 1 (human immunodeficiency virus type 1).

Composition

Stavudine is a white crystalline solid having the chemical formula C10H12N2O4 and molecular weight 224.5 g/mol. This medicine is available in the form of capsules available for oral use consisting of 40, 30, 20, 15 mg of stavudine. The inactive ingredients present in each capsule are: sodium starch glycolate, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate and lactose. The hard gelatin covering is made up of titanium dioxide, gelatin and iron oxides.

Uses

Zerit is indicated to treat the HIV-1 (Human immunodeficiency virus) infection combined with other antiretroviral drugs. This antiviral drug prevents the multiplication of the HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus) cells in your body. It may also be used for other medical conditions not listed here.

How to Use

This medicine should be taken as it was prescribed by the doctor. It should neither be taken for longer than the recommended time nor taken in larger amounts. The directions on the prescription table must be followed. Zerit should not be used as monotherapy to cure HIV. Do not alter your dosage or drug schedule without the approval of your pharmacist. Zerit can be consumed with or without meal. Doses should be taken at regular periods to keep a uniform amount of medicine in the body every time. This medicine is generally given once in every twelve hours.

Side Effects

Discontinue the use of zerit and seek immediate medical help if you observe any of these allergic signs: trouble breathing, swollen lips/face/tongue/throat, hives. This drug may lead to lactic acidosis. Taking zerit may worsen the lactic acidosis. Get prompt medical aid if you even observe some mild signs of lactic acidosis like:

  • Numbness in arm or legs
  • Weakness
  • Muscle pain
  • Dizziness
  • Light-headedness
  • Tiredness
  • Fast or irregular heart beat
  • Stomach ache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Stop the intake of zerit and instantly notify your doctor if you see these serious side effects:

  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Chills
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unusual bleeding
  • Easy bruising
  • Mouth sores
  • Upper stomach ache
  • Clay-colored excreta
  • Dark urine
  • Jaundice
  • Itching
  • Tremors in arms
  • Anxiety
  • Irritation
  • Loss of libido
  • Impotence
  • Swollen neck/throat
  • Loss of bowel control

Less adverse side effects are: headache, mild skin rash, mild nausea and variation in the location of the body fat.

Contraindications

Don’t take zerit if you are hypersensitive to stavudine. This medication should not be taken along with any combination that involves zidovudine. Let your doctor know if you have any of the following medical conditions:

  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes

Pregnancy and Zerit

It is uncertain whether it is harmful for the unborn baby or not. HIV can be excreted into the infant if the pregnant mother is not treated carefully. Avoid breast-feeding during the intake of this medicine. Women with AIDS should avoid breast-feeding completely.