Stavudine is a drug used to treat HIV infection. For maximum treatment results, the use of stavudine can be combined with other HIV drugs. Please note, this drug can not cure or prevent the transmission of HIV / AIDS.
Stavudine belongs to the type of antiviral drug nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI). This drug works by reducing the amount of the HIV virus in the body, so the immune system can work better. That way, the risk of HIV complications can be reduced.
Stavudine trademark:Staviral
What is Stavudine
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Anti Virus nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) |
| Benefit | Controlling HIV infection |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Stavudine for pregnant and lactating women | Category C:Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Stavudine may be absorbed into breast milk. Therefore, consult your doctor about the benefits and risks of taking stavudine while breastfeeding. |
| Drug form | Tablet |
Warning Before Taking Stavudine
Before taking stavudine, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Do not use stavudine if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, pancreatitis, gallstones, obesity, peripheral neuropathy, or a history of long-term use of HIV medications.
- Tell your doctor if you have a habit of drinking or suffer from alcoholism.
- Tell your doctor that you are taking stavudine if you are having surgery, including dental surgery.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to the drug, serious side effects, or an overdose after using stavudine.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Stavudine
Stavudine should only be taken according to a doctor's prescription. The following are common doses of stavudine to treat HIV infection based on the patient's age and weight:
- Adults weighing <60 kg:30 mg every 12 hours
- Adult 60 kg: 40 mg every 12 hours
- Newborn–13 days: 0.5 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Children 14 days <30 kg: 1 mg/kg every 12 hours
- Children aged 14 days 30 kg: 30 mg every 12 hours
- Children aged 14 days ≥60 kg: 40 mg every 12 hours
How to Take Stavudine Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the drug packaging before taking stavudine. Do not reduce or increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Stavudine can be taken before or after meals. Try to take stavudine at the same time every day for maximum treatment. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
If you forget to take stavudine, it is advisable to take it immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
During treatment with stavudine, your doctor may ask you to have regular blood tests to monitor your body's response to the drug. Follow the examination schedule given by the doctor.
To avoid transmission of HIV infection, the consumption of stavudine must be accompanied by preventive measures, such as practicing safe sex behavior, using condoms during sexual intercourse, or not sharing needles.
Store stavudine in a dry place and avoid direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Stavudine Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are some drug interactions that can occur if stavudine is used in combination with other drugs:
- Decreased effectiveness of stavudine when used with zidovudine, ribavirin, or doxorubicin
- Increased risk of peripheral neuropathy when used with interferon or isoniazid
- Increased risk of pancreatitis, peripheral neuropathy, or liver damage when used with didanosine or hydroxycarbamide
Stavudine Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after taking stavudine are:
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Hard to sleep
- Fat accumulation in the upper back or abdomen
Consult a doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or are actually getting worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Lactic acidosis, especially when combined with didanosine and consumed by pregnant women
- Peripheral neuropathy which can be characterized by certain symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet
- Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas
- Visual disturbance
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Weight loss
- Jaundice, dark urine, upper right abdominal pain, or loss of appetite
- An infectious disease that can be characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat
