DIDANOSINE

OTHER NAMES- ddI, Videx

WHY THIS MEDICATION IS GIVEN
Didanosine is used in the treatment of HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS. Didanosine 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.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Make sure your doctor knows if you have any of the following medical conditions:

• Alcoholism (active), increased blood triglycerides (substance formed in the body from fats in foods), pancreatitis (or a history of) - Patients with these medical problems may be at increased risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Edema, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, toxemia of pregnancy - The salt contained in the didanosine tablets and the oral solution packets may make these conditions worse
  
• Gouty arthritis - Didanosine may cause an attack or worsen gout
  
• Peripheral neuropathy - Didanosine may make this condition worse
  
• Phenylketonuria (PKU) - Didanosine tablets contain phenylalanine, which must be restricted in patients with PKU

HOW TO TAKE
Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Didanosine should be taken on an empty stomach since food may decrease the absorption in the stomach and keep it from working properly.

WHERE TO KEEP
Keep it in the bottle it came in and store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Keep the bottle out of reach of children.

IF YOU FORGET
If you do miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Didanosine may cause anxiety, diarrhea, difficulty in sleeping, dryness of mouth, headache, irritability, or restlessness. These effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they become bothersome, check with your doctor.

If you notice any nausea and vomiting; stomach pain; or tingling, burning, numbness, and pain in the hands or feet, contact your doctor immediately.

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