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Zerit (stavudine)

By Mark Cichocki, R.N., About.com

Updated: November 29, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Zerit Capsule

Photo © Gold Standard
Classification:
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI)
Forms:
Capsules in various doses
  • 15mg (yellow/dark red)
  • 20mg (light brown)
  • 30mg (light and dark orange)
  • 40mg (dark orange)
  • 1mg/cc oral solution (powder that is reconstituted)

Zerit XR is the sustained release form of Zerit.

Dosage:
80mg per day given as two 40mg capsules once per day or one 40mg capsule twice per day.

Dosage may be decreased for persons with a body weight under 60kg.

Zerit XR is prescribed at 100mg daily in persons weighing more than 60kg and at 75mg daily in people weighing less than 60mg.

Instructions:
  • May take with or without food.
  • Take with 8 ounces of water.
Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor:
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet, hands, or fingers.
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea / vomiting
Special Warning:
Zerit and other drugs in the class have been linked to a very serious side effect called Lactic Acidosis. If you develop flu like symptoms, weakness, muscle aches or a general feeling of illness, notify your doctor immediately.
For More Information:
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