University of Washington

AIDS Clinical Trials Group

Drug Information Sheet

Stavudine

Other Names: d4T, Zerit^®

Manufacturer: Bristol-Meyers Squibb

What is it?

d4T is an antiretroviral drug, specifically a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It is used to treat HIV, a retrovirus. Retroviruses use the genetic material in the body’s cells to produce more virus which can infect other cells.

How does it work?

d4T interferes with the life cycle of HIV to stop it from producing more virus. Specifically, it ties up the reverse transcriptase enzyme so it cannot build the genetic material needed to make more virus and infect more cells.

How do I take it?

· d4T is available in 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg and 40 mg capsules.

· The usual dose is 1 capsule (30 mg or 40 mg depending upon how much you weigh) twice daily.

· d4T may be taken with or without food.

It is extremely important that you take d4T and your other antiretroviral medications exactly as directed. You should set up a system that will help you remember to take your medicines so that you do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; however, if you skip a dose, do not take two doses at once. Do not stop taking the medication for any reason at any time unless you are directed to do so by your study clinician. If you are unable to continue taking your medication due to side effects, you should contact your study clinician immediately.

Special Considerations

· d4T should be stored at controlled room temperature in a dry place, out of the reach of children.

· Please bring your medication bottles (empty and partially used) to each study visit.

Interactions

Some drugs taken together may have interactions that cause illness or impair the effectiveness of the drugs. It is a good idea to always check with your study clinician before taking any other medications, prescription or otherwise, to be sure it will not interact with d4T.

It is possible that taking d4T with other medicines that have a potential to cause peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbing sensation in hands and/or feet) may increase your risk of developing neuropathy.

Side Effects

Not everyone experiences side effects. When they do occur, they may be mild, moderate or severe. Some side effects cannot be felt by the patient but can be found through laboratory tests, so it is important to see your study clinician regularly for checkups so that side effects can be detected early and treated.

The most common side effects of d4T are peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbing sensations in the hands and/or feet), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas which may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain), changes in liver function, and neutropenia (low white blood cell count). Other side effects seen with d4T include fever, headache, and anemia (low red cell count)

Symptoms of anemia or neutropenia that you may notice include unusual tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath, or any sign of infection. If you begin having these symptoms, please contact your study clinician.

Excessive consumption of alcohol may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis.

Last Update: 7/15/99