Zerit (Stavudine)

Description

Zerit is a medication used amongst individuals suffering with HIV. This drug is not a cure for the condition, but rather a coping method. It is also useful in reducing the severity of the condition to a great extent. This medication is known as stavudine amongst medical professionals.

How it works

Zerit belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. The medication works by controlling the condition from deteriorating into a worse state. The drug reduces the level of HIV in an individual’s system and thereby increases the strength of his/her immune system.

Its uses

Although this condition might not cure HIV, it can improve the life of an infected individual to a great extent. This medication not only reduces the severity of the condition, but it also reduces the risk of possible consequences such as cancer and other dangerous infections. This medication also enhances the immune system of affected individuals and thereby enables them to participate in society more confidently.

Dosage

This drug is usually taken once every 12 hours. It can be taken with or without food. Your physician might prescribe you a different dose depending on the severity of your medical condition. The drug must be consumed at well-spaced intervals in order to avoid overdosing. Do not take more tablets than necessary since it can increase the risk of side effects. This medication works best when it is maintained at a constant level in the body. So, do not miss or skip your dosage since it can reduce the overall effectiveness of the medication.

Your physician might prescribe you a low dosage at the beginning and increase it later on in order to reduce the risk of side effects. So, do not take more than prescribed since it can lead to adverse health issues.

Side effects

The following are some symptoms that you may or may not experience during the treatment process.

 Muscle pain
 Stomach pain
 Numbness
 Troubled breathing
 Dizziness
 Uneven heart rate
 Cold feeling in arms and legs
 Nausea

If you do experience any of the above, reach out to your physician as soon as possible for medical assistance.

Precautions

The following are some precautionary methods that you will have to follow in order to reduce the risk of side effects.

 Avoid consuming alcohol. This can increase the risk of liver damage to a great extent

 Do not increase or decrease your dose without consulting your physician

 If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double the next one. Just follow your regular schedule

 Do not take this medication if you have a liver disease

 Check the ingredients used in the medication to ensure that you are not allergic to any of them

Self-care

Since this medication can be injurious to an unborn baby, do not take this medication during the period of pregnancy. The same applies to breastfeeding too.

Using this medication will not prevent you from passing on HIV. So, do not have unprotected sex or take part in a blood transfusion since you can affect another individual.