Hivid

Generic name: Zalcitabine

What is Hivid?

Hivid is used in combination with other antiviral drugs for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

What is the most important information I should know about Hivid?

Hivid is not a cure for HIV and does not reduce the risk of passing HIV to others. You may continue to develop complications, including frequent infections. Even if you feel better, regular physical exams and blood counts by your doctor are highly advisable. Be sure to tell your doctor immediately if you experience any changes in your general health.

Who should not take Hivid?

Do not use Hivid if you are sensitive to any component of the drug.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Hivid?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Hivid. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), an enlarged heart or chronic heart failure, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in the hands or feet).

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is one 0.750 milligram (mg) tablet every 8 hours in combination with other HIV drugs. Your doctor may adjust the dose if you have kidney disease.

How should I take Hivid?

Hivid should be taken every 8 hours with or without food, exactly as prescribed. It is important to keep levels of the drug in your body as constant as possible, so be sure to take every scheduled dose. Never take more than the prescribed dose.

What should I avoid while taking Hivid?

Avoid high-risk activities such as unprotected sex and the sharing of needles. Hivid does not cure HIV and you can still transmit HIV to others.

Avoid alcohol while taking Hivid. Alcohol may increase the risk of damage to your liver or pancreas.

Do not take Hivid with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Hivid?

If Hivid is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Hivid with the following: aminoglycoside antibiotics such as amikacin or gentamicin, amphotericin, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, cimetidine, didanosine, foscarnet, lamivudine, metoclopramide, pentamidine, probenecid

A number of drugs can cause peripheral neuropathy and should not be taken with Hivid. These drugs include chloramphenicol, cisplatin, dapsone, disulfiram, ethionamide, glutethimide, gold, hydralazine, iodoquinol, isoniazid, metronidazole, nitrofurantoin, phenytoin, ribavirin, vincristine

What are the possible side effects of Hivid?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain; fatigue; hives; itching; mouth sores and inflammation; nausea and vomiting; rash; tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet

If you have advanced HIV, there is a one in three chance of developing a nerve disorder called peripheral neuropathy. The first signs are numbness, tingling, and burning pain the hands and feet. The condition may be irreversible. Tell your doctor as soon as any of these symptoms occur.

Hivid may rarely cause inflammation of the pancreas, especially in people who have previously had the problem. Signs include severe abdominal pain, usually lasting for days, along with nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms develop, call your doctor immediately. Hivid therapy must be discontinued permanently.

Lactic acidosis (a serious metabolic condition characterized by too much acid in the blood) may also occur in people taking Hivid. Symptoms include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and weakness in the arms or legs.

Can I receive Hivid if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Hivid during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Use birth control while using Hivid. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Hivid. HIV can be passed to an infant through breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Hivid?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Hivid?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed bottle.