Compare Videx vs. Retrovir

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Works with other medicines to treat HIV infection.

Within the Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI) drug class, Videx can be a difficult drug to take. Videx has numerous serious side effects. It is also difficult taking Videx twice a day on an empty stomach.

Works with other drugs to treat HIV infection or prevents transmission to your baby.

Retrovir (zidovudine) is not the first choice to treat HIV because of its side effects.

Upsides
  • The oral solution can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 30 days.
  • While Videx doesn’t cure HIV, it does reduce the number of viral copies being made in your blood, giving your healthy immune cells (CD4 cells) a better chance to do their job.
  • Retrovir (zidovudine) is safe and effective for children and infants.
  • Retrovir (zidovudine) is available in several single-pill combination tablets so you don't need to take as many pills.
Downsides
  • Must take on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before, or 2 hours after eating.
  • Take twice a day.
  • The amount of Videx you will take is based on your body weight, kidney, and liver function.
  • May cause serious side effects in your liver, kidneys, and pancreas.
  • Can cause significant tingling in your hands or feet.
  • Retrovir (zidovudine) can cause serious blood, muscle, and liver problems.
  • Many people experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and headache when taking Retrovir (zidovudine).
  • Taking Retrovir (zidovudine) can raise your cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
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Used for
  • HIV infection
  • HIV infection
  • Prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission
  • HIV Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP)
Dosage forms
  • Extended release
  • Liquid
  • Pill
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$67.78
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Lowest price
$69.34
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Reviews
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Side effects
The Videx (Didanosine Or Ddl) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
12possible side effects
  • Fever
    25%
  • Cough
    15%
  • Skin rashes
    12%
  • Enlarged liver
    11%
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
    9%
  • Nausea and vomiting
    8%
  • Diarrhea
    8%
  • Nasal discharge or congestion
    8%
  • Wheezing
    7%
  • Pain in the ear
    7%
  • Swelling of the mouth
    6%
  • Enlarged spleen
    5%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Pancreatitis
    • Kidney problems
    • Use of stavudine, another HIV drug
  • Lactic acidosis
    • Women
    • Use of stavudine, another HIV drug
  • Liver damage
    • Use of hydroxyurea, stavudine, and Videx together
  • Peripheral neuropathy
    • Use of stavudine, another HIV drug
  • Eye changes
  • Immune reconstitution syndrome
    • HIV
    • Exposure to other infections
    • Start of a new HIV medication
    • Change in HIV therapy
  • Fat Redistribution
    • HIV treatment
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Blood and bone marrow problems
    • Advanced HIV
    • Anemia
    • Neutropenia
  • Muscle and kidney damage
    • Extended use of Retrovir (zidovudine)
  • Acid build-up in the blood
    • Liver disease
    • Women
    • Obesity
  • Fat redistribution
    • HIV treatment
  • Immune reconstitution syndrome
    • HIV
    • Exposure to other infections
    • Start of a new HIV medication
    • Change in HIV therapy
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Videx (Didanosine Or Ddl)
Learn more about Retrovir (zidovudine)