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Zidovudine

Uses of Zidovudine

  • The primary use of Zidovudine is to manage HIV and AIDS in both adults and children. It is a part of the antiretroviral class of medications.

  • Additionally, Zidovudine can be used to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV during pregnancy and childbirth, and it can also be used for post-exposure prophylaxis after accidental exposure.

Side effects of Zidovudine

  • Headache

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fatigue

  • Muscle pain

  • Loss of appetite

How Zidovudine works

  • Zidovudine is an antiviral medication, specifically a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI).

  • It works by imitating the normal building blocks of the HIV virus's genetic material. When the virus tries to multiply, it picks up Zidovudine instead of its usual building blocks. As a result, the virus fails to replicate properly, thereby preventing it from multiplying and spreading in the body.

Certified content

Written By

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Dr. Michelle FrankMedical Content Writer| 8 years

Doctor of Medicine

Reviewed By

Dr. Chhavi Rosha
Dr. Chhavi Rosha Health & Medical Content Writer| 8 years

BMS, FMC, MD Resident

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

  • Zidovudine is available for use in various formulations, such as tablets and solutions for oral consumption.

  • Zidovudine is also available for administration through intravenous infusion as an injectable solution.

Age and Dose Restrictions

  • Zidovudine is meant for use by both adults and children.

  • The specific dose for children depends on their body weight.

  • It is always used in combination with other HIV medicines.

Contraindications

  • Zidovudine should not be used by patients who have allergies to it.

  • It should also not be used by patients with a very low neutrophil count, a type of white blood cell.

Other Medications to Avoid

  • Zidovudine can interact with other nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., stavudine and didanosine), some seizure medications (e.g., lacosamide and phenytoin), chemotherapy medications (e.g., mitotane and doxorubicin), methadone, ribavirin, and probenecid.

Overdose and Missed Dose

  • An overdose of Zidovudine can lead to potentially serious side effects, including severe allergic reactions, lactic acidosis, severe liver problems, muscle weakness, and low red or white blood cell counts. If you suspect an overdose, consult your doctor immediately.

  • If you miss a dose of Zidovudine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

  • To manage nausea and vomiting, try taking Zidovudine with food.

  • Stay hydrated and rest to manage fatigue and headaches.

  • If diarrhoea persists, drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

  • Zidovudine might cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy after taking Zidovudine, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

  • Zidovudine is commonly used to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV during pregnancy under doctor's supervision.

  • If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking Zidovudine.

Caution in Other Conditions

  • Patients with liver or kidney disease should use Zidovudine with caution.

  • Those with a history of pancreatitis or bone marrow suppression should also exercise caution while taking this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Maintain a balanced diet to manage potential side effects like loss of appetite and diarrhoea.

  • Regularly monitor your health status, especially liver and kidney function, while taking Zidovudine.

  • Practice safe sex to prevent spreading HIV to others. Zidovudine does not prevent the sexual transmission of HIV.

  • Avoid sharing needles or other items that have blood or body fluids on them.

Frequently asked questions

Zidovudine is not a preventive medicine against HIV. It is used in the management of HIV and AIDS once a person has been diagnosed with the condition.

While there are natural ways to support immune health, there are no natural alternatives for Zidovudine or any antiretroviral therapy. It is essential to take HIV medications as prescribed by your doctor.

No, Zidovudine does not cause addiction or dependency. However, it is important to take it regularly as instructed by the doctor for effective management of the HIV virus.

No, you should never share your medication with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Zidovudine is a prescription medicine and should be taken only under the supervision of a doctor.

Yes, Zidovudine is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, always consult your doctor if you have any dietary restrictions or concerns.

Zidovudine does not directly affect mood or hormones. However, side effects such as fatigue and difficulty sleeping may indirectly affect your mood.

Zidovudine can be taken at any time as per your convenience, but it should be taken at the same times each day so that there is a consistent amount in the bloodstream.

Terms & Conditions


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