Category

• Antiviral, systemic

Description

Stavudine (STAV-yoo-deen) (also known as d4T) 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).

Stavudine (d4T) 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.

Stavudine 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 .

Stavudine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Oral
• Capsules (U.S. and Canada)
• Oral solution (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Zerit

In Canada—

• Zerit

Another commonly used name is d4T .