It is a synthetic thymidine nucleoside analogue, active against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Stavudine is a Thymidine nucleoside analogue. It undergoes phosphorylation in the presence of Kinase enzyme and form Stavudine triphosphate. This Stavudine triphosphate competitively inhibit HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme which is responsible for the conversion of viral RNA to pro viral DNA and is then added to host cell chromosome. Stavudine triphosphate terminates elongation of pro viral DNA and results in inhibition of viral replication. 

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration.
Distribution: It is widely distributed in the body.
Excretion: It is excreted in urine.

On Set of Action
60 minutes

Half Life
90 minutes

Adverse Effects
1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Diarrhoea
4. Anorexia
5. Peripheral neuropathy
6. Thrombocytopenia
7. Neutropenia
8. Lactic acidosis
9. Hepatic steatosis
10.Headache
11 Anaemia
12.Myalgia
13.Rash
14.Dizziness
15.Fever
16.Pruritis

ContraIndications
Hypersensitivity to Stavudine.

Special Precautions
1. Peripheral neuropathy
2. Renal impairment
3. Hepatic impairment

Pregnancy
Use with caution

Breast Feeding
Contraindicated

Elderly
Use with caution

Children
 Use with caution

Neonates
Contraindicated

Indications

HIV infections

Dosage
Adult: 30 - 40 mg 2 times daily.
Patient weighing 60 kg or more: 80 mg / day in 2 divided dose.
Patient weighing 30 - 60 kg: 60 mg / day in 2 divided dose.
Children weighing below 30 kg: 2 mg / kg body weight / day in 2 divided dose.

Storage
Store it at 15 -25 degree C in a tightly closed container .Protect away from heat and light. Keep out of the reach of Children.

Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as noticed and if it is the time to take the next dose then skip the missed dose and do not double the dose.

Over Dose
Give supportive measures and treatment.