Zerit

Zerit is one of the drugs used to fight the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)—the deadly cause of AIDS. It is usually prescribed for people who have already been taking the HIV drugs for an extended period. HIV attacks the immune system, slowly destroying the body's ability to fight off infection. Zerit helps stave off the attack by disrupting the virus's ability to reproduce.

Who should not take Zerit?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease; liver disease; a history of pancreatitis; a history of anemia; a history of lactic acidosis or elevated lactate levels; a history of peripheral neuropathy. You may not be able to take Zerit, or you may require lower doses or special monitoring during treatment, if you have any of these conditions.

Side Affect of Generic for Zerit

Generic Zerit (D4T) is an antiviral used to treat HIV. Stavudine (Generic Zerit (D4T)) IS usually prescribed for people who have already been taking the HIV drug Retrovir for an extended period. Generic Zerit (D4T) helps stave off the attack by disrupting the virus's ability to reproduce.

Like other medicines, Generic Zerit can cause some side effects. If they occur, the side effects of Generic Zerit are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and need medical attention and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Generic Zerit cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Generic Zerit develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Some of the most serious Generic Zerit (D4T) side Effects include muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, nervous system abnormalities, pain or numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, pancreatitis, rash and sleeplessness.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zerit

Combining Zerit with any of the following drugs may make peripheral neuropathy worse.

Remember, too, that combination therapy with Zerit, didanosine, and hydroxyurea increases the possibility of serious liver problems. Combining Zerit and didanosine also increases the risk of pancreatitis.

Special warnings about Zerit

Remember that Zerit does not prevent the spread of HIV through sexual contact or contact with infected blood.

Zerit has been known to cause severe and even fatal liver damage, especially in women, overweight individuals, and people who have been taking Zerit or similar medications for a long time. The risk increases if you're being treated with a combination of Zerit, didanosine and hydroxyurea. Signs of a liver problem include weight loss, weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. If you develop these symptoms, call your doctor immediately; treatment with Zerit may have to be stopped. Also be sure to tell the doctor if you've ever had a liver problem or tend to abuse alcohol; the doctor will watch especially closely for any sign of a liver problem.

Zerit can also cause serious and even fatal pancreatitis, especially if you've had the problem in the past, suffer from gallstones, or drink alcoholic beverages. Combining Zerit with didanosine increases the risk. Check with your doctor immediately if you develop such signs of pancreatitis as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting; you may have to stop treatment with Zerit. If you have any of the risk factors for pancreatitis, make sure the doctor is aware of it.

Storage

Zerit capsules should be stored in a closed container and kept at a temperature of 59° to 86°F.