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n.
an antiviral drug that interferes with the action of the enzyme reverse transcriptase, by means of which HIV, the cause of AIDS, is able to incorporate itself into the human host cell. The drug is administered by mouth in attempts to prolong the lives of patients with HIV infection and AIDS. Possible side-effects include damage to nerves, severe pancreatitis, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Trade name: Videx.
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di·dan·o·sine (di-danґo-sēn) 2′3′-dideoxyinosine, a nucleoside analogue of 2′,3′-dideoxyadenosine; an antiretroviral agent that is converted intracellularly into the active metabolite dideoxyadenosine triphosphate, which inhibits viral replication both by incorporation into the viral genome and by interference with the action of reverse transcriptase; used for the treatment of advanced infection with human immunodeficiency virus-1 and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome; administered orally. Formerly called dideoxyinosine (ddI).Medical dictionary. 2011.