What is this medication for?
Didanosine is used in combination with other HIV drugs to treat the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Didanosine is one of a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Reverse transcriptase is a part of HIV required to infect cells and make more virus. Didanosine prevents reverse transcriptase from working properly. Didanosine does not cure AIDS and does not prevent it from being spread to others, but it does help to slow down the progression of the disease. This may help to delay the development of problems related to AIDS or HIV disease.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Videx® is available as:
- solution (oral)
- tablet (chewable)
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 150 mg
- 200 mg
Videx EC® is available as:
- capsule (delayed release)
- 125 mg
- 200 mg
- 250 mg
- 400 mg
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose is based on body weight, ranging from 250 mg to 400 mg taken in one to two divided doses. People with kidney disease may be prescribed a lower dose by the doctor. Children's doses are based on age and body surface area (m²).
The capsule form of this medication is to be swallowed whole. Do not open the capsule, dissolve it in water, or chew it.
To take the tablet form of this medication, chew or disperse the tablets in liquid. Disperse 2 to 4 tablets in at least 1 ounce (30 mL) of water or apple juice, mix well, and drink the entire contents.
Use a measuring spoon or cup to take the pre-made oral liquid form of didanosine dispensed by the pharmacist. Shake well before taking this medication.
Didanosine should be taken on an empty stomach (at least 30 min before or 2 hours after eating) since food might reduce the amount of drug that gets absorbed into the bloodstream.
Finish all this medication, even if you have started to feel better.
Store the tablets at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Store the oral liquid in the refrigerator for up to 30 days and discard any unused amount.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Didanosine should not be used by anyone who is allergic to didanosine or any ingredients of the medication.