Lamivudine Precaution
Stavudine therapy has rarely been associated with motor weakness, occuring predominantly in the setting of lactic acidosis. The evolution of motor weakness may mimic the clinical presentation of the Guillian-Barre Syndrome(including respiratory failure). Symptoms may continue or worsen following discontinuation of therapy.
Stavudine therapy has also been associated with peripheral sensory neuropathy, which can be severe, is dose related, and occurs more frequently in patients being treated with neurotoxic drug therapy, including didanosine, in patients with advanced HIV infection, or in patients who have previously experienced peripheral neuropathy.
Caregivers of young children recieving stavudine therapy should be instructed regarding detection and reporting of peripheral neuropathy. |