Key takeaways
Didanosine (Videx) and entecavir (Baraclude) are both antiviral medications, but they are used to treat different conditions. Didanosine is an antiretroviral (ARV) medication that was used to treat HIV, while entecavir is primarily used for hepatitis B. Both medications belong to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class, but didanosine is no longer available in the U.S. due to serious side effects and limited demand. Entecavir, on the other hand, is still available and is considered a first-choice treatment for hepatitis B. It comes in both tablet and liquid forms, with the tablet having a generic version. Didanosine had significant side effects and drug interactions, which contributed to its discontinuation. Entecavir's common side effects include headache and fatigue, and it requires careful dosing, especially for those with kidney problems. Unlike didanosine, entecavir must be taken on an empty stomach and is not recommended for people with both hepatitis B and untreated HIV.
