Zerit: Advanced Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Management
| Product dosage: 40 mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per cap | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $1.44 | $43.19 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $1.21 | $86.38 $72.32 (16%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.13
Best per cap | $129.57 $101.44 (22%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
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 formulated to support immune reconstitution and delay disease progression in appropriate patient populations. Clinical use requires careful patient selection and monitoring due to its specific pharmacokinetic profile and potential adverse effects.
Features
- Active pharmaceutical ingredient: Stavudine
- Available in 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and 40 mg capsules
- Bioavailability: Approximately 86% following oral administration
- Plasma half-life: 1.0-1.6 hours (intracellular half-life: 3.5 hours)
- Metabolism: Minimally hepatic, primarily eliminated renally
- Storage: Room temperature (15-30°C) in tightly closed containers
Benefits
- Effectively reduces HIV viral load when used in combination therapy
- Supports CD4+ cell count recovery and immune function restoration
- Demonstrated efficacy in treatment-naïve and experienced patients
- Convenient twice-daily dosing regimen supports adherence
- Established long-term safety profile in appropriate patient populations
- Available in multiple strengths for precise dosing adjustments
Common use
Zerit is primarily prescribed as part of combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 30 kg. It is typically used in regimens alongside other antiretroviral agents such as lamivudine, efavirenz, or protease inhibitors. Clinical decision-making involves consideration of treatment history, resistance testing results, and comorbid conditions. The medication may be used in both initial therapy and subsequent treatment lines, though contemporary guidelines often reserve it for specific clinical scenarios due to its toxicity profile.
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 children weighing at least 30 kg: use adult dosing guidelines based on weight. Administration should occur every 12 hours, with or without food, though consistency in timing relative to meals is recommended. Dosage adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min): For CrCl 26-50 mL/min: 20 mg twice daily (≥60 kg) or 15 mg twice daily (<60 kg). For CrCl 10-25 mL/min: 20 mg once daily (≥60 kg) or 15 mg once daily (<60 kg). Hemodialysis patients: administer after dialysis.
Precautions
Peripheral neuropathy may occur and is dose-related; monitor for symptoms including numbness, tingling, or pain in hands/feet. Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with nucleoside analogues. Monitor for clinical signs and symptoms; discontinue if lactic acidosis is suspected. Pancreatitis has occurred; use with caution in patients with history of pancreatitis or risk factors for pancreatitis. Lipoatrophy and lipodystrophy have been associated with stavudine use; consider alternative regimens in patients with significant fat loss. Monitor hepatic function regularly. 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 antiretroviral effects). Patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment without appropriate monitoring capabilities. History of clinically significant pancreatitis. Severe renal impairment without dosage adjustment. Pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus (Category C). Breastfeeding is not recommended due to potential for HIV transmission and adverse effects in infant.
Possible side effects
Common (≥10%): Peripheral neuropathy (up to 21%), headache (16%), nausea (11%), diarrhea (10%), rash (9-11%) Less common (1-10%): Pancreatitis, elevated liver enzymes, insomnia, dizziness, abdominal pain, vomiting Rare (<1%): Lactic acidosis, hepatic steatosis, severe hepatomegaly, lipodystrophy, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, hyperglycemia Laboratory abnormalities: Elevated amylase, elevated triglycerides, neutropenia, anemia
Drug interaction
Do not administer with zidovudine (antagonistic antiviral effect). Concomitant use with other neurotoxic drugs (isoniazid, vincristine, etc.) may increase risk of peripheral neuropathy. Drugs affecting renal function may alter stavudine clearance. Methadone may increase stavudine exposure (monitor for toxicity). No clinically significant interactions with most protease inhibitors or NNRTIs. Use caution with other medications causing pancreatitis or hepatotoxicity.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Maintain regular dosing schedule to ensure consistent antiviral pressure. If multiple doses are missed, contact healthcare provider for guidance on resumption and potential resistance testing.
Overdose
Limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include peripheral neuropathy, hepatic toxicity, pancreatitis, and hematologic abnormalities. There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic, including monitoring of vital signs and laboratory parameters. Hemodialysis removes approximately 40% of administered dose over 4 hours and may be considered in significant overdose.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from moisture and light. Do not use if capsules are discolored or show signs of deterioration. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not transfer to other containers as stability may be compromised.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment decisions must be made by qualified healthcare professionals based on individual patient characteristics. Always follow the prescribing information provided with the medication. Dosage may need adjustment based on renal function, body weight, and concomitant medications. Regular monitoring is essential during therapy.
Reviews
“Zerit has been a cornerstone of HIV therapy for appropriate patients when used judiciously with careful monitoring. While newer agents offer improved toxicity profiles, stavudine remains relevant in specific clinical scenarios and resource-limited settings.” - Infectious Disease Specialist, 15 years experience
“Clinical experience demonstrates effective viral suppression with proper adherence. The neuropathy risk requires proactive management, but many patients tolerate therapy well with appropriate dosing and monitoring.” - HIV Clinical Pharmacist
“Despite its side effect profile, Zerit’s efficacy and affordability make it valuable in global HIV treatment programs. Patient education and regular assessment are crucial for successful outcomes.” - Global Health Physician