Didanosine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Videx, ddI

Category

• Antiviral, systemic

Description

Didanosine (di-DAN-oe-seen) (also known as ddI) 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).

Didanosine (ddI) will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps 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. Didanosine 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.

Didanosine may cause some serious side effects, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Symptoms of pancreatitis include stomach pain, and nausea and vomiting. Didanosine may also cause 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 didanosine .

Didanosine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:

Oral
• Capsules, delayed-release (U.S.)
• Oral solution, buffered powder (U.S.)
• Oral suspension, pediatric powder (U.S. and Canada)
• Tablets, buffered - chewable and for oral suspension (U.S. and Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Videx

In Canada -

• Videx

Another commonly used name is ddI .