zidovir (ZIDOVUDINE)
What is Zidovir?
Zidovir (AZT) is an antiviral medication used to treat HIV/AIDS. It belongs to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class and works by blocking the HIV virus from multiplying in the body. It helps reduce the amount of HIV in the blood and slows disease progression.
What is the usual dose of Zidovir?
For adults, the usual dose is 300 mg twice daily. For children, the dose is based on weight, typically 180–240 mg/m² every 12 hours. In newborns, it is given as 2 mg/kg every 6 hours to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
How do I take Zidovir?
Zidovir is a medicine used to prevent and treat HIV infection. It is usually taken twice a day by adults and children. Infants six weeks and younger may take it every six hours. There are no specific food restrictions when taking Zidovir, so you can maintain your normal diet.
For how long do I take Zidovir?
HIV treatment is lifelong. Zidovir is usually taken as part of a combination therapy with other antiretroviral drugs. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
What disease or symptom is Zidovir used for?
It is used to treat HIV infection and reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth. It is not a cure for HIV but helps control the virus.
How long does it take for Zidovir to start working?
It starts working within a few hours, but significant effects, like reduced viral load, may take weeks to months. Blood tests are used to monitor its effectiveness.
Is Zidovir effective?
Yes, studies show it significantly reduces HIV levels and delays disease progression. It was the first approved drug for HIV treatment and is still used today, especially in prevention strategies.
How do I know if Zidovir is working?
Zidovir's pharmacokinetics, how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a drug, are similar in adults, children over 3 months, and pregnant women. In neonates (newborns), the half-life (the time it takes for the body to eliminate half of the drug) is shorter, at 13 ± 5.8 hours.
How does Zidovir work?
It blocks the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing HIV from copying its genetic material and spreading in the body. This slows down the virus's growth.
Who should avoid taking Zidovir?
People with severe anemia, liver disease, or allergies to Zidovir should avoid it. It should be used cautiously in people with kidney disease.
Can I take Zidovir with other prescription drugs?
Zidovir interacts with ribavirin, ganciclovir, stavudine, and certain chemotherapy drugs, increasing the risk of anemia or liver damage. Inform your doctor of all medications you take.
Can Zidovir be taken safely while pregnant?
Yes, Zidovir is used in pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission. It is considered safe and effective during pregnancy.
Can Zidovir be taken safely while breastfeeding?
HIV-positive mothers are usually advised not to breastfeed, as the virus can pass through breast milk. Consult your doctor for safer feeding options.
Is Zidovir safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more prone to side effects like anemia and liver issues, requiring careful monitoring and dose adjustments.
How should I store Zidovir?
Store at room temperature (15–25°C), away from moisture and direct heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Does Zidovir make people tired or drowsy?
Yes, fatigue and muscle weakness are common side effects. If severe, consult your doctor.
Does Zidovir cause stomach upset?
Yes, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common. Taking it with food may help reduce discomfort.
Does Zidovir affect sleep?
Zidovir may cause difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. If you have trouble sleeping while taking Zidovir, talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to improve your sleep, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, or taking a melatonin supplement.
Does Zidovir make it hard to think or concentrate?
It may cause dizziness, confusion, or headaches in some people. Avoid activities requiring focus if you experience these effects.
Does Zidovir affect mood?
Rarely, it may cause depression, anxiety, or irritability. If mood changes occur, inform your doctor.
Does Zidovir interfere with sexual function?
It does not directly affect libido or sexual function, but fatigue and other side effects may impact performance.
Does Zidovir affect appetite?
It may cause loss of appetite in some people, but effects are usually mild.
Does Zidovir cause weight gain?
Weight changes are not common, but some people experience slight weight loss due to nausea or decreased appetite.
Does Zidovir cause headaches?
Yes, headaches are a common side effect but usually mild. If persistent or severe, consult a doctor.
Does Zidovir limit driving?
If you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Zidovir?
Alcohol can increase liver stress and worsen side effects like nausea and dizziness. It is best to limit or avoid alcohol.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Zidovir?
Caffeine does not directly interact with Zidovir but may worsen nausea or dizziness. If sensitive to caffeine, reduce intake.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Zidovir?
Moderate exercise is generally safe, but avoid overexertion if you experience fatigue or dizziness.
What are Zidovir possible harms and risks?
Common side effects include nausea, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. Serious side effects include anemia, liver problems, and lactic acidosis (rare but dangerous build-up of acid in the blood).
Available in 3 variations
Zidovir 100 Capsule 10s
Zidovir 100 Capsule 10s
Zidovudine (100mg)
strip of 10 capsules
Zidovir 300mg Tablet 10s
Zidovir 300mg Tablet 10s
Zidovudine (300mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Zidovir 50mg Syrup 100ml
Zidovir 50mg Syrup 100ml
Zidovudine (50mg/5ml)
bottle of 100 ml Syrup
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