Antivirals: Nutrient Depletion Checklist

Nutrient Depletion Checklist:

Antivirals

         From the April 2000 Issue of Nutrition Science News



Drug Nutrient Depletions Potential Depletion Problems


Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors* carnitine cramps, fatigue, muscle weakness
copper anemia, cardiovascular and connective tissue problems, fatigue
vitamin B12 anemia, increased cardiovascular disease risk, tiredness, weakness
zinc lost sense of smeall and taste, lower immunity, slow wound healing

* Antivirals are usually taken in combination for the treatment of HIV and AIDS or singularly for certain cases of chronic hepatitis B. *Reverse transcriptase inhibitors include didanosine, lamivudine, stavudine, zalcitabine, zidovudine and the non-nucleoside subset, which includes delavirdine and nevirapine.


The scientific basis for this information is from published studies using these drugs or drugs from the same pharmacological class. Advise customers to ask their doctor or pharmacist if any of their medications can cause nutrient depletions.

Reprinted with permission from Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook (Lexi-Comp, 1999) by Ross Pelton, Ph.D., C.N.; James B. LaValle, N.D., C.N., D.H.M.; Ernest B. Hawkins; and Daniel L. Krinsky.



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Since 4-01-2000