Antiretroviral medications - reverse transcriptase inhibitors

Selected Medications:

• Ribavirin
  • Copegus, Rebetol
• Zidovudine
  • Retrovir
• Didanosine
  • Videx
• Zalcitabine
  • Hivid
• Stavudine
  • Zerit
• Lamivudine
  • Epivir

Depletions:

Although copper deficiency is rare, signs and symptoms of long term depletion of copper include anemia, changes in the structure and appearance of hair, heart damage, growth retardation, impaired bone formation, osteoporosis (bone loss), and emphysema (lung disease).

Signs and symptoms of zinc deficiency include loss of appetite or sense of taste, growth retardation, skin changes, and increased susceptibility to infection.

Editorial Note:

The selected depletions information presented here identifies some of the nutrients that may be depleted by certain medications. The signs and symptoms associated with nutrient deficiency may also indicate conditions other than nutrient deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms mentioned, it does not necessarily mean that you are nutrient deficient. Nutrient depletion depends upon a number of factors, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as the length of time you have been taking the medication. Please consult your health care provider; he or she can best assess and address your individual health care needs and determine if you are at risk for nutrient depletions from these medications, as well as others not listed here.