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ZIDOVUDINE

About

ZIDOVUDINE is an antiretroviral medicine used in the treatment of HIV. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retroviral infection that attacks and damages the cells of the immune system. This weakens the ability to fight against infections and diseases. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Symptoms of HIV include fever, chills, night sweats, muscle aches, etc. This medicine is also used for the prevention of maternal-fetal HIV transmission.

ZIDOVUDINE contains Zidovudine, which belongs to the class of protease nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by inhibiting the nucleoside reverse transcriptase enzymes that are necessary for the virus's DNA reproduction. This causes inhibition of viral replication and thereby prevents further spread of infection.

ZIDOVUDINE may cause certain side effects such as nausea, headache, stomach pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, cough, diarrhea, nasal congestion, fever, tiredness, muscle pain, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist, please consult your doctor. ZIDOVUDINE should be taken as advised by your doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose of the medicine based on your health condition. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

ZIDOVUDINE should be avoided if you are allergic to it. Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have heart problems, liver/kidney diseases, haematological toxicity, severe anemia, hepatomegaly with steatosis, lactic acidosis, or peripheral nephropathy. If you are pregnant and breastfeeding, let your doctor know before taking ZIDOVUDINE. ZIDOVUDINE can be used in children only if recommended by the doctor. If prescribed, the child should be carefully monitored for any changes. ZIDOVUDINE is used to treat the infection but does not cure or prevent it. Inform your doctor about your medical history and the medicines you take to prevent possible interactions.

Uses of ZIDOVUDINE

HIV Infection.

Medicinal Benefits

ZIDOVUDINE contains Zidovudine, which belongs to the class of protease nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by inhibiting the nucleoside reverse transcriptase enzymes that are necessary for the virus's DNA reproduction. This causes inhibition of viral replication and thereby prevents further spread of infection. ZIDOVUDINE is used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines to help reduce the symptoms, control the infection, and prevent opportunistic infections effectively. It also helps in improving the quality of life of a patient with HIV. 

Directions for Use

Tablet/Capsule: Take this medicine as advised by your doctor. It should be taken without food at least 2 hours before the meal. Swallow as a whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush or break the medicine. Suspension: Take ZIDOVUDINE as prescribed by your doctor. Shake the container well before each use. Measure and consume the required amount of ZIDOVUDINE using a measuring cup. It is advised not to consume more than the recommended dose of medicine.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Side Effects of ZIDOVUDINE

  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Back pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Tiredness
  • Nasal congestion
  • Fever
  • Cough

In-Depth Precautions and Warning

Drug Warnings

ZIDOVUDINE should be avoided if you are allergic to it. It is advised not to take this medicine along with ganciclovir, interferon alpha, ritonavir, stavudine, daunorubicin, bleomycin, idarubicin, and epirubicin, as it can cause serious side effects. Hence, avoid using this medicine under such conditions. Inform your doctor if you have any cardiovascular conditions, liver/kidney disease, hematological toxicity, anemia, hepatomegaly with steatosis, lactic Acidosis, and peripheral nephropathy, on priority. It is not known whether ZIDOVUDINE can be given to pregnant and breastfeeding women. Hence, inform your doctor if you are pregnant and breastfeeding before receiving ZIDOVUDINE. ZIDOVUDINE can be used in children only if recommended by the pediatrician. If prescribed, the child should be carefully monitored for any changes. ZIDOVUDINE is used to treat the infection but does not cure or prevent it. ZIDOVUDINE is used to treat the infection but does not cure or prevent it. This medicine is used in combination for the treatment of HIV infection. This medicine may cause dizziness; hence, avoid driving or operating machines while taking ZIDOVUDINE.

Drug Interactions

Drug-Drug Interactions: ZIDOVUDINE may interact with contraceptives (ethyl estradiol, norethindrone), immunosuppressants (cyclosporin, sirolimus, tacrolimus), antiretroviral drugs (stavudine, ritonavir), cytotoxic drugs (idarubicin, epirubicin, doxorubicin), antiviral medicine (ganciclovir).

Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have cardiac problems, hepatomegaly with steatosis, lactic acidosis, and peripheral nephropathy before starting treatment with ZIDOVUDINE.

Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:

  • TACROLIMUS
  • RITONAVIR
  • STAVUDINE
  • EPIRUBICIN
  • DOXORUBICIN
  • GANCICLOVIR
  • INTERFERON ALFA
  • Safety Advice

    • Safety Warning

      Alcohol

      unsafe

      Alcohol intake might increase the risk of stomach or intestine bleeding. Hence, avoid alcohol consumption while taking ZIDOVUDINE.

    • Safety Warning

      Pregnancy

      consult your doctor

      If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, inform your doctor before taking ZIDOVUDINE. Your doctor will prescribe a suitable dose of this medicine to prevent maternal-fetal HIV transmission.

    • Safety Warning

      Breast Feeding

      unsafe

      ZIDOVUDINE is excreted in milk. You should not nurse your child if you are taking this medicine because of the risk of HIV-1 transmission and serious adverse reactions in breastfeeding infants.

    • Safety Warning

      Driving

      unsafe

      Avoid driving vehicles after taking ZIDOVUDINE as it may cause dizziness and affect your ability to drive.

    • Safety Warning

      Liver

      caution

      ZIDOVUDINE should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. In case of severe liver problems, it may increase the risk of hematologic toxicity. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.

    • Safety Warning

      Kidney

      caution

      ZIDOVUDINE should be used with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.

    • Safety Warning

      Children

      safe if prescribed

      Please consult your doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose of this medicine based on the age and condition of your child.

    Habit Forming

    No

    Diet & Lifestyle Advise

    • Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Eat vitamin and nutrient-rich food such as vegetables and fruit as it helps to boost your immune system. Try to take lean protein and whole grains.
    • Avoid eating raw meat and eggs. Consume properly boiled and cooked meat, poultry or seafood.
    • Eat bland and low-fat foods, and avoid spicy or oily foods if you experience nausea or vomiting.
    • Never share personal items with body fluids or blood on them, such as razor blades or toothbrushes.
    • Avoid sharing used needles, other injection or drug equipment.
    • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhoea or syphilis.
    • Try to reduce emotional and physical stress by spending time with your family or doing whatever makes you happy.
    • Drink more fluids and avoid alcoholic beverages to prevent dehydration.  

    Special Advise

    • Get an HIV test done at least every three months.
    • Regular kidney and liver function and bone mineral density tests while taking ZIDOVUDINE are advised. 
    • Regularly get blood and urine tests done while taking ZIDOVUDINE.
    • ZIDOVUDINE may still develop infections or other illnesses associated with HIV infection or AIDS. So, people taking ZIDOVUDINE should be carefully monitored throughout the treatment.

    Patients Concern

    Disease/Condition Glossary

    HIV Infection: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retroviral infection that attacks and damages the cells of the immune system. This weakens the ability to fight against infections and diseases. If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to Acquired Immuno Deficiency Virus (AIDS). Symptoms of HIV include headache, fever, chills, joint pain, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, mouth nodes, muscle aches, etc. ZIDOVUDINE helps reduce the symptoms, control the infection, and also helps improve the HIV patient’s quality of life.

    FAQs

    ZIDOVUDINE contains Zidovudine, which works by inhibiting the nucleoside reverse transcriptase enzymes that are necessary for the virus's DNA reproduction. This causes inhibition of viral replication and thereby prevents further spread of infection.

    No, completing the entire treatment course prescribed by the doctor is always recommended. Sudden discontinuation of the medicine can lead to serious side effects. Your doctor will decide whether to stop the medication or not.

    ZIDOVUDINE doesn’t cure HIV infection. However, it helps to control the disease and prevent opportunistic infections.

    Available Medicines for

    ZIDOVUDINE

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