Didanosine (By mouth)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to didanosine.

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. Didanosine is taken together with other medicines to treat HIV infection. Take all other medicines your doctor has prescribed at the right time each day.
It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. The oral liquid should be taken at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after you eat.
Delayed-release capsule: Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
Oral liquid: Shake the bottle before using. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Storage instructions:
- Delayed-release capsule: Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Oral liquid: Store the liquid in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused liquid medicine after 30 days.

Do not use this medicine if you are also taking allopurinol or ribavirin.
Some medicines and foods can affect how didanosine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
- Delavirdine, ganciclovir, hydroxyurea, indinavir, methadone, nelfinavir, stavudine, tenofovir
- Antacids
- Medicine to treat an infection (such as ciprofloxacin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, tetracycline)
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, pancreas problems, a history of peripheral neuropathy, or you drink alcohol.
Do not breastfeed. You can spread HIV or AIDS to your baby through your breast milk.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
- Pancreas problems
- Lactic acidosis (too much acid in the blood)
- Liver problems, including portal hypertension
- Peripheral neuropathy (a nerve problem)
This medicine will not keep you from giving HIV to others. Always practice safe sex, even if your partner also has HIV. Do not share needles or other items that may have blood or body fluids on them.
Your immune system may get stronger when you start taking HIV medicines. Sometimes the immune system will start to fight infections that were hidden in your body, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your health.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments. Your doctor may also want you to have your eyes checked regularly by an eye doctor.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Dark urine or pale stools, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach, yellow skin or eyes
Eye pain, blurred vision, dry eyes
Fast breathing, trouble breathing, nausea and vomiting, severe weakness, tiredness, or confusion
Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
Slow or uneven heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness
Sudden and severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever

Last Updated: 1/27/2017