You must discontinue the use of the antiviral drug ddC during treatment, until you are stable on sulfadiazine. Sulfadiazine is most commonly given in combination with pyrimethamine. The two drugs must be used together to achieve the greatest therapeutic effect. These drugs are used at relatively high doses, leading to a strong likelihood of side effects. The drugs can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier and thus are preferred to treat toxoplasmic encephalitis infections within the brain.
Side effects are common, as with many of the sulfa drugs .
Other side effects include suppression of white blood cells, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. PWAs are more likely to use these drugs for long periods of time, and that means a constant strain on the kidneys. These painful obstructions can block the flow of urine, leading to kidney damage over time, and eventual kidney failure if left untreated. An important way to avoid such problems in patients taking this drug is to drink plenty of clean water or clear juices every day during treatment . Patients taking this or any such drug should drink a minimum of 48 fl.oz., or 3 pints, of water or other fluids daily.