Zalcitabine is an antiretroviral medication which slows the progression of HIV infection. It does so by interfering with the
replication of the virus' genetic material, thereby inhibiting the reproduction of HIV within the body. Zalcitabine is usually
used in combination with other antiretroviral agents. Zalcitabine does not cure HIV nor does it prevent HIV transmission.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
The dose of zalcitabine is usually 0.75 mg every 8 hours. Zalcitabine is supplied as an oval film-coated tablet which
should be swallowed whole. The 0.357 mg tablets are beige, and the 0.75 mg tablets are gray. The tablets should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Your dosage is _________ mg (1 tablet) every 8 hours.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of zalcitabine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for your next dose, do not double the dose, just carry on with your regular schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Zalcitabine may cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, and
vomiting. Zalcitabine can also cause peripheral neuropathy (problems with impluse transmission in the nerves).
Symptoms may include tingling, burning, pain, or numbness in the hands and feet. These symptoms are reversible if
recognized quickly and the drug is discontinued, or if the dose is reduced. If you develop any of these symptoms, please call the clinic.
Other adverse effects include: mouth sores, sore throat, headache, rash, itching, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal
pain, muscle pain, and dizziness. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
In rare cases, zalcitabine can lower white blood cells (needed to help fight infection), platelets (need to help blood clot),
and hemoglobin (need for red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body), increase blood sugar, or cause abnormalities
in blood tests of liver function. To monitor for these side effects, blood tests must be done regularly.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR
PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Do not stop taking this medications without checking with your doctor first, even if you begin to feel better. Maintain your
regular visits and inform your doctor of any new medical problems that develop while you are taking zalcitabine.
This medication can interact with other drugs. It is important that your physician or pharmacist knows about other drugs
you are taking, even medications you can buy without a prescription. It is recommended that you do not drink alcohol while taking zalcitabine, as alcohol may worsen its side effects.
The safety of zalcitabine has not been established during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED?
Zalcitabine should be stored in a cool (15-30C) dry place, well out of the reach of children. Do not store in your bathroom or kitchen, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
