Zidovudine Description

Generic Name : ZIDOVUDINE

Pronunciation : (zye doe' vue deen)

Trade Name(s) : Retrovir, Zidovir

Why it is prescribed: Zidovudine is used to treat symptoms of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) or advanced AIDS-related complex (ARC). Treatment with zidovundine dose not prevent the spread of AIDS to other people. This drug cannot cure HIV infections, but it may decrease the frequency and severity of complications associated with AIDS and ARC. Zidovudine may slow or stop the progression of HIV infections.

When it is to be taken: Zidovudine is usually taken every four hours around the clock. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. It is important to interrupt your normal sleep and activity schedule to take doses of zidovudine.

How it should be taken: Zidovudine comes in the form of capsules and syrup. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will want to evaluate your response to this medication with regular physical exams and blood tests. Your dose may need to be adjusted or stopped if this drug causes side effects.
2. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
3. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and continue your regular dosing schedule. However, if you remember the missed dose near the time you are to take the next dose, space the missd dose and the regularly scheduled dose two to three hours apart. Then resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, indestion, gas loss of appetite. Take zidovudine with food or milk.
2. Headache, weakness, sleepiness or difficulty sleeping, dizziness or fainting, nervousnes, restlessness, confusion, depression, difficulty swallowing, changes in taste, swelling of the tongue, bleeding gums or mouth sores, muscle aches, back pain, sweating, rash. Contact your doctor if these effects persist or are severe.
3. Unusual bleeding or bruisingt; unusual tiredness or weakness; pale skin; fever, chills, and sore throat. Contact your doctor immediately. You may need a blood transfusion.

Other Precautions :
1. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially acetaminophen, aspirin, medications containing acetaminophen or aspirin, indomethacin, cimetidine, lorazepam, acyclovir, amphotericin B, dapsone, flucytosine, pentamidine, phenytoin, and chemo therapy drugs.
2. Before you take zidovudine, tell your doctor if you have a hstory of anemia, bleeding, or other blood problems or liver or kidney disease.
3. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctors.
4. Do not allow anyone else to take your medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medicaiton in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out the reach of children.
2. Store zidovudine at room temperature and away from light.