Zalcitabine - zal-SITE-a-been - also known as ddC is using in the treat of the infection causing by the human immunodeficiency virus - HIV. HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome - AIDS.
Zalcitabine - ddC will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Zalcitabine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this drug may continue to have other problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
Zalcitabine may cause some serious side effects, including peripheral neuropathy - a problem involving the nerves. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet. Zalcitabine may also cause pancreatitis - inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis include stomach pain and nausea and vomiting Check with your family doctor if any new health problems or symptoms occur while you are taking zalcitabine .
Zalcitabine is available only with your family doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
Some commonly using brand names are:
In the USA
In Canada
Another commonly using name is ddC .