However, we found among patients who entered the study with AIDS, there were no differences according to treatment group. The three treatment groups had the same survival rates. Because there was no survival advantage from switching from AZT to DDI to treat HIV infection, it cannot be considered effective. In 1999 the FDA revised didanosine's package insert to reflect its inclusion as a first-line component of combination antiretroviral HIV therapy. Didanosine was initially approved for twice a day dosing, but since October 1999 once a day dosing is available.
Tablets are chewable or dispersible in water and dosing is weight-dependent.
For patients in this weight group, a dose of 250 mg twice a day of didanosine powder can be used as well. Special dosing adjustments are necessary in patients with renal impairment. Patients with peripheral neuropathy may require lower doses. Tablets should be kept in tightly closed containers. If tablets are dispersed in water, the mixture may be kept for 1 hour at room temperature.