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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
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Headache, Decreased appetite, Nausea, Vomiting, Fever, General discomfort, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Cough
CONTENT DETAILS
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Written By
Dr. Love Sharma
PhD (Pharmacology), PGDPRA
Reviewed By
Dr. Shilpa Garcha
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
23 Dec 2022 | 03:49 PM (UTC)
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Medicine brands 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 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.
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.
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.
Zidovudine should be taken in the dose and duration advised by the doctor. This medicine may be taken with or without food but it is better to be taken at a fixed time of the day to avoid the chances of missing a dose.
Zidovudine is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Zidovudine too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
If you forget a dose of Zidovudine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.