Videx

Videx has also been known to cause serious and even fatal liver damage. Signs of a liver problem include weakness, fatigue, stomach discomfort, dizziness, a cold feeling, and a sudden change in heartbeat. If you develop these symptoms, stop taking Videx and call your doctor immediately. Also be sure to tell the doctor if you've ever had a liver problem or tend to abuse alcohol; the doctor will watch you especially closely.

Videx can also effect the nervous system, causing changes in your eyesight or a feeling of tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands or feet (known as peripheral neuropathy). Alert your doctor immediately if you develop any of these problems. The doctor may need to change the dosage or stop the drug.

Some people receiving drugs for HIV experience a redistribution of body fat, leading to extra fat around the middle, a "buffalo hump" on the back, and wasting in the arms, legs, and face. Researchers don't know whether this represents a long-term health problem or not.

If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, you should be aware that Videx powder contains 1,380 milligrams of sodium per packet. Those with the hereditary disease phenylketonuria should remember that Videx tablets contain phenylalanine.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Videx

Alcohol increases your risk of developing serious side effects such as pancreatitis.

Severe or even fatal reactions may occur if Videx is combined with tenofovir (Viread) or ribavirin (Rebetol, Virazol). If you need to take Videx while you're using either of these medications, your doctor will monitor you closely. If any of the symptoms for pancreatitis, lactic acidosis, or peripheral neuropathy occur (see "Special warnings about this medication"), contact the doctor immediately.

If Videx is taken with certain other medications, the effect of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before taking any of the following:

Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, including Maalox and Mylanta
Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
IV pentamidine (Pentam)
Methadone (Dolophine)
Stavudine (Zerit)
Tetracycline