What is this medication for?
Stavudine belongs to the class of medications called antiretrovirals. It is used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to treat the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Stavudine is one of a class of antiretrovirals called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Reverse transcriptase is a part of HIV required to infect cells and make more viruses. Stavudine prevents reverse transcriptase from working properly.
Stavudine does not cure AIDS and does not prevent it from being spread to others but does help to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of the problems associated with HIV disease and AIDS.
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 are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting 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.
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 of stavudine is based on body weight, ranging from 30 mg to 40 mg taken twice daily. People who have impaired kidney function or kidney disease may be prescribed a lower dose by the doctor. Children's doses are also based on body weight, as determined by their doctor. Stavudine can be taken with or without food.
Finish all this medication, even if you have started to feel better.
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.
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. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store the capsules at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Stavudine oral solution should be kept in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) and discard the remaining amount after 30 days.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Stavudine should not to be used by anyone who is allergic to stavudine or to any of ingredients of the medication.