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Didanosine

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(dye-DAN-oh-seen)

Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us

What is didanosine?

Didanosine (Videx®) is a medicine used to treat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This medicine does not cure the disease; it only slows down the progress of the disease. It is available as a chewable tablet or a powder that is mixed with liquid.

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Special instructions

  • Do not stop giving this medication or change the dose without first talking to your child's doctor.
  • Tablets should be chewed, crushed or mixed with water. Tablets mixed in water must be taken within 1 hour of mixing.
  • Didanosine should be taken on an empty stomach 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not mix with fruit juice or any other acidic drink.
  • Do not give any other medicine, prescription or over-the-counter, without first talking to the doctor.
  • It is important to keep regular doctor visits so the effects of the medicine can be watched carefully.
  • Store pills / packets at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
  • Store liquid medication in the refrigerator.
  • Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
  • If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor right away.
  • Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

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If a dose is missed

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the health care provider who prescribed the medication.

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Side effects

Call your child's doctor if the following effects continue or are bothersome:

  • Diarrhea (loose stools)
  • Unusual tiredness
  • Belly pain
  • Tingling of hands and feet
  • Headache

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Warning signs

Call your child's doctor if your child develops:

  • Problems breathing
  • Bruising
  • Severe diarrhea (loose stools)
  • Severe belly pain
  • Tingling of hands and feet

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Contact us

For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.

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Patient Education Program V 5120 8/98
rev. 9/05, 8/07