Zidovudine - zye-DOE-vue-deen - also known as AZT is using in combination with other anti-virus medication in the treat of the infection causing by the human immunodeficiency virus - HIV. HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome - AIDS. Zidovudine is using to slow the progression of disease in diseaseds infected with HIV who have advanced symptoms, early symptoms, or no symptoms at all. This drug also is using to help prevent pregnant women who have HIV from passing the virus to their babies during pregnancy and at birth.
Zidovudine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Zidovudine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this drug may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
Zidovudine may cause some serious side effects, including bone marrow problems. Symptoms of bone marrow problems include fever, chills, or sore throat; pale skin; and unusual tiredness or weakness. These problems may require blood transfusions or temporarily stopping treat with zidovudine Check with your family doctor if any new health problems or symptoms occur while you are taking zidovudine .
Zidovudine is available only with your family doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
Some commonly using brand names are:
In the USA
In Canada
Another commonly using name is AZT .