Compare Ziagen vs. Zerit

Abacavir (brand name Ziagen) and stavudine (formerly known as Zerit) are both antiretroviral (ARV) medications used to treat HIV. They should each be used with other HIV medications for the treatment of HIV. They belong to the same subclass called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which help prevent the HIV virus from replicating. However, there are several differences between the two. Abacavir is still available and is a first-choice medication for HIV treatment, while stavudine has been discontinued in the U.S. due to its serious side effects and lack of demand. Abacavir requires a genetic test before use because it can cause a severe allergic reaction, whereas stavudine does not have this requirement. Abacavir is available in both tablet and oral solution forms, while stavudine is no longer available in any form. Common side effects of abacavir include headache, nausea, and fatigue, while stavudine was known for more severe side effects, which contributed to its discontinuation. Additionally, abacavir has fewer drug interactions compared to stavudine, making it a safer option for many people.