Zidovudine

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.

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.

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

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

Tell your doctor if you have any of the medical conditions:If you have any history of allergy to medicine, foodIf you have bone marrow problems (e.g. low white blood cell or haemoglobin levels) or lactic acidosisIf 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

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

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.