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Didanosine

Antiretroviral

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What is didanosine?

Didanosine (also called Videx® or Videx-EC®) is used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This medicine is one of a group called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Didanosine can slow down how soon you will see symptoms or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. Didanosine is available in these forms:

  • liquid
  • powder (that is mixed with a liquid before taking)
  • 125-mg, 200-mg, 250-mg, and 400-mg extended-release capsules
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Possible side effects

  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever and chills
  • Tingling in the hands or feet
  • These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take didanosine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Didanosine liquid must be stored in the refrigerator. When didanosine liquid is kept in the refrigerator, it can be used for up to 30 days. After that time, the medicine should be thrown away and replaced with a new supply.
  • Didanosine capsules and powder should be stored at room temperature.
  • Didanosine may affect the way other medicines work. These medicines include amprenavir, dapsone, floroquinolone antibiotics (such as Cipro®), fluconazole, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and nelfinavir.
  • Some medicines may affect the way didanosine works. These medicines include antacids, ganciclovir, and tenofovir.
  • Always tell the doctor if you are taking these medicines, or if you start taking any new medicines while you are taking didanosine.

Drug at Home:

  • This medicine is usually taken either one (1) time a day or 2 times a day. If you take didanosine 2 times a day, one (1) dose should be taken in the morning and one (1) dose should be taken at night.
  • Didanosine should be taken on an empty stomach. Take it 30 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after a meal.
  • The powdered form of the medicine should be mixed with water.
  • Do not take didanosine with acidic liquids such as apple juice, orange juice, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks.
  • Shake liquid didanosine well before you take it.
  • The capsules must be swallowed whole.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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