for Veterans and the Public
Zerit (stavudine, d4T)
- Type of Drug: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor
Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors were the first type of drug available to treat HIV. They are also known as NRTIs, nucleoside analogues, or "nukes."
When the HIV virus enters a healthy cell, it attempts to make copies of itself. It does this by using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. NRTIs block that enzyme, so HIV cannot make new copies of itself.
Approved adult dosing
one 40 mg capsule, two times a day
Morning
Zerit 40 mg
Evening
Zerit 40 mg
Under 133 pounds:
one 30 mg capsule, two times a day
Morning
Zerit 30 mg
Evening
Zerit 30 mg
Note: Generic formulations are available; these generic pills may have different shapes and colors than the ones shown above.
Notes on taking this medication
- No food restrictions, can take with or without food
- Persons with kidney problems may need to adjust the doses of Zerit
- Do not take Zerit with AZT (Retrovir), Combivir, Trizivir, or Videx EC
Side effects
- Pain or tingling in feet or hands (peripheral neuropathy)
- Nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; headache; rash
- Pancreatitis
- Changes in body fat distribution, especially fat loss; may be severe
- Abnormalities in cholesterol levels
- Rare but serious: increase of lactic acid in the blood
See accompanying chart: Tips for Common Side Effects
My doctor's instructions
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to substitute for advice from your medical provider or pharmacist. If you have any questions about your medication dosing, talk to your medical provider or pharmacist.
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