Zidovudine

Molecule Description

Zidovudine is 'Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor' (NRTI) type of antir

etroviral medicine. This medicine is used with other HIV medications to help control HIV infection. It helps to decrease the amount of HIV in your body so that your immune system can work better.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Zidovudine

Treating HIV infection when used along with other medications
It is also used along with some other medication to help prevent women from passing HIV to the baby (foetus) during pregnancy

Contraindications of Zidovudine

When should one not use Zidovudine

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Zidovudine
Your white blood cell count and red blood cell count is meager

Side effects of Zidovudine

Common side effects of this drug are:

Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Loose motions
Pain in the stomach
Dizziness
Muscle pain

Precautions and Warnings of Zidovudine

Pregnancy

Can I take Zidovudine during pregnancy?

If this medicine is used in HIV positive pregnant women, it prevents passing HIV to the unborn baby. Regular investigations are necessary to monitor the growth of an unborn baby.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Zidovudine while breastfeeding?

HIV infection can pass through breast milk to the baby. Also, this medicine passes in breast milk, therefore avoid breastfeeding when on this medicine. Consult your doctor for advice.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Zidovudine?

Zidovudine can cause dizziness and decreased alertness, therefore avoid driving when you are on this medication.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Zidovudine?

Alcohol can have an ill effect on bones when on this medication, therefore, avoid drinking alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have liver disease, or your weight is more than average.

Mode of Action of Zidovudine

How Does It Work?

It works by blocking the multiplication of HIV by inhibiting specific mechanisms at the level of viral RNA.

Interactions of Zidovudine

Interactions with other medicines

Medicines which suppress bone marrow such as Ganciclovir, Dapsone, Trimethoprim
Medicines that may affect the kidneys (including NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen)
Lorazepam, Sulfamethoxazole/ Trimethoprim, Lamivudine, Rosuvastatin and Duloxetine

Interactions with food items

Continue your regular diet unless your doctor tells you to follow any particular diet.

Dietary Restrictions of Zidovudine

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage of Zidovudine

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose are extreme drowsiness, tiredness, headache and confusion. Consult with your doctor as soon as possible.

Missed a Dose

It would be best if you took the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, but do not take extra medicine to make up for the skipped ...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should be discussed with my healthcare provider before taking Zidovudine?

Tell your doctor if you have any of the medical conditions:
If you have any history of allergy to medicine, food
If you have bone marrow problems (e.g. low white blood cell or haemoglobin levels) or lactic acidosis
If you have a history of alcohol abuse or dependence, kidney problems, pancreatitis or Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection or other liver problems (e.g., cirrhosis)
If you are on dialysis, you are at risk for liver problems or you are very overweight

Q: Should Zidovudine be taken on an empty stomach?

A: Take Zidovudine with food as this increases the absorption of the medication into the body and enhances the efficiency of it.

Q: Are any lab tests required during this medication?

A: During treatment and for at least five to six months after stopping this medicine, regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function and blood cell count in your blood.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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