Key takeaways
Didanosine (Videx) and Epzicom (abacavir/lamivudine) are both antiretroviral (ARV) medications used to treat HIV. They belong to the same subclass of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which work by stopping the HIV virus from making copies of itself. However, there are several differences between them. Didanosine (Videx) is no longer available in the U.S. due to serious side effects and limited demand, while Epzicom is still in use and available as a generic. Epzicom is a combination medication containing two NRTIs, abacavir and lamivudine, and is taken as one tablet once daily. In contrast, didanosine was a single-agent medication. Epzicom requires a genetic test before use due to the risk of a severe allergic reaction, and it can worsen hepatitis B if stopped suddenly. Common side effects of Epzicom include headache, tiredness, and nausea, while didanosine was known for more serious side effects, which contributed to its discontinuation.
