If you are taking ddI and have sharp pain near your stomach, back, or sides, with nausea and vomiting, stop taking ddI immediately and call your doctor. Lactic acidosis is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. This is a by-product of abnormal energy production by the cells. It may be caused by damage to the mitochondria. See Fact Sheet 554 for more information on mitochondrial toxicity.
Lactic acidosis can cause severe damage to the pancreas and liver.
Symptoms of lactic acidosis can include weight loss, abdominal pain, and severe fatigue. However, this increases the risk of developing pancreatitis. Pregnant women should not take ddI and d4T at the same time due to an increased risk of lactic acidosis. Do not take ddI at the same time as a protease inhibitor. Separation times are different for different protease inhibitors.