Zidovudine
Information about Zidovudine
Zidovudine uses
Zidovudine is used in the treatment of HIV infection.
How zidovudine works
Zidovudine is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Common side effects of zidovudine
Headache, Decreased appetite, Nausea, Vomiting, Fever, General discomfort, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Cough, Redistribution/accumulation of body fat, Macular edema, Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease), Pancreatic inflammation, Enlarged liver, Rhabdomyolysis
Available Medicine for Zidovudine
Expert advice for Zidovudine
- In combination with other medicines, it is used for the treatment of HIV infections.
- Take it with food, as this increases the absorption of the medicine into the body.
- Zidovudine may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- You may still develop infections or other illnesses associated with viral infection while taking this medication.
- You can also pass on HIV or HBV to others. Don't share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.
- During treatment and for at least six months after stopping this medicine, regular blood tests are needed to monitor your liver function, level of hepatitis B virus and blood cells in your blood.
Frequently asked questions for Zidovudine
Zidovudine
Q. What is Zidovudine? What is it used for?
Zidovudine belongs to a group of medicines called antiretrovirals. It is used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). It helps to control HIV infection so your immune system can work better.
Q. Is Zidovudine safe?
Zidovudine is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.
Q. How does Zidovudine work?
Zidovudine works by blocking the function of an enzyme, called reverse transcriptase, which is responsible for the HIV replication process. This helps to reduce the level of HIV in the blood.