Zalcitabine Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: ZALCITABINE (DDC) - ORAL
Pronounced: (zal-SITE-uh-bean)

Zalcitabine Oral Warning

Zalcitabine can cause serious nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy), rare swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis), rare metabolic problems (lactic acidosis), and rare liver problems, especially in those infected with the hepatitis B virus. Some of these problems may be fatal.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, deep/rapid breathing, unusual weakness, yellowing of eyes/skin, or pain/numbness/tingling/burning feelings in the arms/legs.

Zalcitabine Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Vomiting/nausea, headache, diarrhea/constipation, abdominal pain, or sores in the mouth/throat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she as judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

unusual fatigue
painful swallowing
fast/pounding heartbeat
new signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)
easy bruising/bleeding
mental/mood changes
muscle/joint pain
seizures
swelling of the ankles/feet
shortness of breath
increased thirst/urination
change in the amount of urine

Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medication (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of therapy with your doctor, as well as the possible role of exercise to reduce this side effect.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: