Videx EC is an oral capsule consisting of a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) called didanosine. We carry both the brand choice and generic alternative of Videx EC in 125mg, 200mg, 250mg, and 400mg!

Videx EC is a prescription medication used to treat HIV. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus that is spread through human fluids such as blood, saliva, semen, and vaginal fluids. This virus will gradually weaken your immune system over time; this can become fatal if it progresses to AIDS. The immune system is the body’s “bodyguard” as it is in charge of defending the body against any threats, such as infections and disease. When HIV weakens your immune system so much to the point where it is no longer capable of fighting infections and diseases, you have AIDS. AIDS can be life-threatening if not treated as infections and diseases are able to thrive in your body without an immune system to fight them off.

Videx EC (didanosine) is effective at treating HIV because of its capability to prevent the virus from further multiplying in your body. This will make it easier for the immune system to fight the virus.

Take Videx EC exactly the way your doctor has prescribed it to you. Do not take more or less of a dose or use the medication for longer or shorter than prescribed for.

This medication is best taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating or 2 hours following. Swallow this medication whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break open Videx EC. Store in room temperature away from heat or moisture.

Do not use Videx EC (didanosine)

Do not use Videx EC with allopurinol, ribavirin, or stavudine, or if you are allergic to didanosine.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To ensure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease or pancreatitis, kidney disease, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, or if you drink large amounts of alcohol.

Risks

This medication can cause serious or life-threatening effects on your liver or pancreas; watch for signs of problems in these areas (see side effects).

Lactic acidosis is a condition that may occur when using this medication. Lactic acidosis is a dangerous build up of lactic acid in the blood and should you notice any signs (see side effects), you should contact your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is important to have your HIV controlled during the time of pregnancy and child birth. Follow your doctors directions very carefully. If you are pregnant; do not use this medication together with stavudine as the combination can be very dangerous during pregnancy.

Do not breast feed when infected HIV as the virus can be passed through breast milk.

Common side effects of Videx EC (didanosine) may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;

• rash;

• headache; or

• changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Videx EC (didanosine) may include:

• numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet;

• bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; or

• vision changes.

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

liver or pancreas problems: loss of appetite, upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back), nausea or vomiting, fast heart rate, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

new infection: fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, weight loss;

lactic acidosis: unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, vomiting, irregular heart rate, dizziness, feeling cold, or feeling very weak or tired.

Is this medication safe for children?

This medication is safe for children who are at least 2 weeks old.

What is the average dose for an adult with HIV?

The average dose for an adult (60kg +) with HIV is 400mg once a day. If you weigh less than 60kg;  take 250mg per day.

What other drugs may affect didanosine?

Other drugs that may affect Videx EC include ciprofloxacin, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, itraconazole, or ketoconazole. If you use any of these medications, ask your doctor when a good time is to take them when also taking Videx EC. This is not a complete list of drugs that interact with didanosine.

What should I avoid while taking this medication?

While taking Videx EC, you should avoid alcohol consumption and taking antacids without your doctors advice.