Zerit: an antiviral drug for the treatment of HIV infection
Zerit (international name Stavudine) is an antiviral drug that is used to treat HIV infection, including after therapy with zidovudine. The drug is manufactured in France by the Bristol-Myers Squibb company and is presented in the form of capsules of various dosages and powder for the preparation of an oral solution.
The composition of Zerit includes the active substance - stavudine. The drug belongs to a group of antiviral drugs of different groups that are used to combat HIV infection.
Despite the effectiveness of the drug, its use may be accompanied by some side effects. These include peripheral neurological disorders, headache, insomnia, dizziness, abdominal pain, exacerbation of pancreatitis, dry mouth, anorexia, liver dysfunction, suppression of hematopoiesis, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia, allergic reactions in the form of skin rashes and febrile conditions.
Contraindications to the use of Zerit include hypersensitivity to the drug and severe liver dysfunction. The admissibility of its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding depends on the absolute indications.
The drug may also interact with other drugs that can cause peripheral neurological disorders, which may increase the side effects of Zerit.
If the disease progresses, adjustment of retroviral therapy is required. In case of liver dysfunction and the presence of peripheral neurological disorders, Zerit should be used with caution. The occurrence of neuropathy may require dose reduction. Bilirubin levels, ALT and AST activity must be monitored during treatment, especially with concomitant liver and kidney damage.
Thus, Zerit is an effective antiviral drug for the treatment of HIV infection, which requires careful attention to side effects and contraindications for use. The drug should be taken only under the supervision of a physician, who can choose the optimal dose and treatment regimen for each patient.