Nutrient Depletion Checklist: Antivirals

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 smell 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 published from 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.