zalcitabine, an antiretroviral nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor analog. Also called ddC, dideoxycytidine. ▪ INDICATIONS: It was prescribed in combination with other drugs for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus infections. The sale and distribution of this medication was discontinued in the United States in 2006. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: The drug should not be given to patients with an allergy to zalcitabine or any of its components. Zalcitabine is not a cure, and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients may continue to acquire symptoms associated with the disease. Caution is recommended in patients with low CD4 cell counts, esophageal ulcers, numbness or tingling in the extremities, or a history of pancreatitis or alcohol abuse. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The side effects most often reported include nausea, appetite loss, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and night sweats.
