Zalcitabine

Zalcitabine is a synthetic pyrimidine nucleoside possessing antiretroviral properties. In June 1992, it became the third agent to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of HIV infection. It prevents the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) involved in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, because monotherapy with zalcitabine has been shown to be inferior to monotherapy with zidovudine (AZT), zalcitabine was approved for use only in combination with zidovudine. In addition, zalcitabine was given a priority review by the FDA; approval was based on improvements in CD4 counts and not demonstration of clinical efficacy. In February 1996, zalcitabine was granted full FDA approval based on data from two randomized, double-blind clinical studies.

Zalcitabine is primarily indicated in conditions like Epidural block, surgery, HIV infection.

Zalcitabine

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Zalcitabine, which give rise to further complications include Tachycardia, Hepatitis, Jaundice, Seizures, Hypertension, Syncope, Hyperbilirubinemia, Hepatic failure. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Zalcitabine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Weakness, Headache, Nausea, Anorexia, Fever, Myalgia, Malaise, Peripheral neuropathy, Weight loss, Chest pain, Hypoglycemia, Hyponatremia.

Zalcitabine should be used with extreme caution during pregnancy. It is not recommended during pregnancy. It should be used with extreme caution in patients with history of pancreatic disease or tingling of the hands or feet (called peripheral neuropathy), history of heart trouble, kidney or liver disease. Food decreases the absorption of the drug. Follow doctor's instructions exactly regarding how to take it.

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, and Cardiac / Hypertensive Patients. If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

0.75 mg (0.75 (0.75)) 8 hourly PO —

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

Zalcitabine is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementAluminium Hydroxide and OxideAmphotericin BCimetidine (HCl)Foscarnet (Na)HydroxyureaIsoniazidIsoniazidLamivudineMethyldopaMetronidazolePentamidineConcomitant use of these drugs increase the risk of pancreatitis.MajorClosely monitor for the signs of pancreatitis. Zalcitabine should be stopped.ProbenecidTrimethoprimVincristine (Sulphate)Vincristine potentiate the risk of adverse effects of zalcitabine such as peripheral neuropathy.ModerateCombination should be avoided. If concomitant use is necessary Closely monitor for symptoms of neuropathy. Discontinue zalcitabine if neuropathy develop. These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

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