Zerit (stavudine) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) indicated for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents. As a critical component of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), Zerit works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, thereby impeding viral replication and reducing viral load. This medication is designed for long-term management, helping to slow disease progression, improve immune function, and enhance quality of life for patients living with HIV. Proper adherence to prescribed regimens is essential to maximize therapeutic outcomes and minimize resistance development.

Features

• Active ingredient: Stavudine
• Available in capsule and oral solution formulations
• Standard dosages: 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and 40 mg capsules; 1 mg/mL oral solution
• Requires combination with other antiretroviral agents
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards
• Prescription-only medication

Benefits

• Effectively reduces HIV viral load in conjunction with other antiretrovirals
• Helps restore and preserve CD4+ T-cell counts
• Slows progression to AIDS-defining conditions
• Contributes to long-term disease management strategy
• Available in multiple formulations for dosing flexibility
• Supported by extensive clinical trial data

Common use

Zerit is primarily used as part of combination therapy for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients. It is typically prescribed alongside other antiretroviral medications from different classes to create a comprehensive treatment regimen. The medication is indicated for both treatment-naïve patients and those who have received previous antiretroviral therapy, though resistance testing may guide appropriate use in experienced patients. Zerit may be particularly considered when specific resistance patterns or individual patient factors make it an appropriate choice among NRTI options.

Dosage and direction

Adult dosing: The recommended dosage is based on body weight. For patients weighing 60 kg or more: 40 mg twice daily; for patients weighing less than 60 kg: 30 mg twice daily. Pediatric dosing: For patients weighing 30 kg or more: use adult dosing guidelines; for patients 14 days and older weighing less than 30 kg: 1 mg/kg twice daily. Administration: May be taken with or without food. The oral solution should be shaken well before each use. Doses should be taken approximately 12 hours apart to maintain consistent drug levels. Dosage adjustments are required in patients with renal impairment. Treatment should be initiated and monitored by healthcare providers experienced in HIV management.

Precautions

• Peripheral neuropathy may occur and may be severe; monitor for symptoms including numbness, tingling, or pain in hands or feet
• Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported
• Pancreatitis has occurred; monitor for symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
• Lipoatrophy and lipodystrophy have been associated with stavudine use
• Hepatic impairment may require dosage adjustment or alternative therapy
• Regular monitoring of liver function, amylase, lipase, and triglycerides recommended
• Immune reconstitution syndrome may occur during initial treatment phase

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to stavudine or any component of the formulation
• Concomitant use with zidovudine (may antagonize antiviral effects)
• Severe hepatic impairment without appropriate dosage adjustment
• History of pancreatitis unless potential benefits outweigh risks
• Pre-existing peripheral neuropathy unless no alternative treatment options available

Possible side effect

Common (≥10%): Peripheral neuropathy, headache, diarrhea, nausea, rash Less common (1-10%): Insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, chills/fever, amylase increased Rare (<1%): Pancreatitis, lactic acidosis, hepatic steatosis, severe hepatomegaly Metabolic: Lipoatrophy, hyperlipidemia, glucose intolerance Hematologic: Anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia Other: Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, fatigue

Drug interaction

• Zidovudine: Antagonistic antiviral effect; concomitant use contraindicated
• Doxorubicin: Potential increased risk of side effects
• Ribavirin: Possible antagonistic antiviral effect
• Other medications causing peripheral neuropathy: May increase risk or severity (e.g., isoniazid, metronidazole)
• Nephrotoxic drugs: May affect renal clearance of stavudine
• Methadone: May decrease stavudine concentrations

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Maintain regular dosing schedule to ensure consistent antiviral activity. If multiple doses are missed, contact healthcare provider for guidance, as inconsistent dosing may lead to reduced efficacy and potential development of resistance.

Overdose

Limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include peripheral neuropathy, hepatic toxicity, or pancreatitis. There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis removes approximately 40% of the dose over 4 hours and may be considered in overdose situations. Contact poison control center or emergency department immediately for management guidance.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from moisture. The oral solution may be refrigerated but should not be frozen. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond expiration date printed on packaging. Properly dispose of unused medication according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Zerit is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Treatment decisions must be made based on individual patient factors, including medical history, current medications, and laboratory values. The prescribing physician should be consulted for complete prescribing information and personalized medical advice. Never initiate, adjust, or discontinue medication without professional medical guidance.

Reviews

“After incorporating Zerit into my HAART regimen, my viral load became undetectable within three months. The peripheral neuropathy was manageable with dose adjustment and supportive medications.” - M.C., treated for 4 years

“My healthcare team carefully monitored me for metabolic changes while on Zerit. Regular blood work helped catch lipid changes early, and we successfully managed them with lifestyle modifications.” - T.R., patient since 2018

“As an HIV specialist, I’ve found Zerit remains a valuable option in certain clinical scenarios, particularly when resistance patterns or individual patient factors make it appropriate. Careful patient selection and monitoring are essential.” - Dr. A. Chen, Infectious Disease Specialist

“The oral solution formulation has been crucial for my pediatric patients who cannot swallow capsules. Having multiple dosage options allows for precise weight-based dosing in children.” - Pediatric HIV Nurse Practitioner

“While newer agents have different side effect profiles, Zerit’s long-term efficacy data and established safety profile make it a consideration in resource-limited settings where treatment options may be constrained.” - Clinical Pharmacist