Videx EC (Didanosine DR)

What is Videx EC?

Videx is an antiviral drug.

What is Videx EC used for?

Videx is used for treating the symptoms of human immune deficiency virus i.e. HIV, which results in the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is also used for reducing the risk of HIV related complications.

How does Videx EC work?

Videx benefits by restricting the multiplication of the virus in the body and therefore prevents it from infecting healthier parts.

How to use Videx EC

Read the instruction leaflet and abide by the instructions given to you by your physician. Videx must be taken on an empty stomach, at least two hours after or one and a half hours before your meal.

It is for oral administration and should be swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing. This is recommended, as changing the form of the medicine can reduce its effectiveness. Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own.

Take it after equal time intervals and for best results, make sure you take it regularly, as it gives finest results when its level in the body is kept constant for the instructed time span.

Videx EC warnings and precautions

Prior to taking Videx, it is wise to discuss with your doctor, all sorts of allergies that you may have, so that any unwanted heath complications can be averted.

If your are suffering from or have suffered from kidney, liver, heart, pancreas, alcohol abuse, gout or gall bladder related troubles or have had a surgical procedure recently, ask your doctor about the necessary precautions that you need to take while taking Videx. Also, avoid consuming alcohol while you are on Videx treatment.

Use effective birth control measures for ensuring that the virus does not spread. Caution is advised in case of older people, children, pregnant and lactating females. Store the drug at room temperature and keep it away from the reach of children and pets.

What do I do if I have missed a Videx EC dose?

If you have missed your Videx dose, you should take it right away, but if it nearly time for your next dose leave the missed one and go back to your regular schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Videx EC overdose?

If you have taken a Videx overdose, you should consult your doctor for help.

Videx EC interactions

To avoid any drug interactions, make sure your doctor is aware of all the medicines that you are taking. Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Before starting with Videx doses, let your doctor know if you are already taking some medicines with similar ingredients. If you are on methadone, ribavirin, drugs causing nerve problems including isoniazid and vincristine, medications responsible for pancreatitis e.g., ganciclovir, pentamidine, co-trimoxazole and allopurinol, notify your doctor.

Videx EC side effects

Like every other drug, Videx is also reported to have side effects ranging from serious to milder ones. On one hand, where serious side effects need immediate medical attention, the mild ones disappear in some time.

Some common side effects of Videx, like headaches, diarrhea, and confusion are the result of the adjustment that body makes, when you initially start taking the medicine. These side effects are not that troublesome and fade away gradually. But if they persist and become worse, you need to tell your doctor about it.

Some other side effects that have been associated with Videx and are rare but can be life threatening if not treated on time, include numbness in limbs, visibility problems, sudden weight gain or loss, and severe allergic reactions.