Zidovudine, also known by its shorthand name AZT or its brand name Retrovir, was one of the first breakthroughs in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Today, it’s still a key part of antiretroviral therapy (ART), helping people living with HIV manage the virus and prevent its spread.
How Zidovudine Works
Zidovudine belongs to a group of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs):
- It blocks an important enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which the HIV needs to copy its genetic material.
- By interfering with this process, zidovudine prevents HIV from multiplying and infecting more cells in the body.
- It also helps to protect the immune system by lowering the amount of virus (viral load) in the bloodstream.
Key Uses of Zidovudine
Zidovudine is typically combined with other antiretroviral drugs for greater effectiveness. Its main uses include:
- Treating HIV Infection: It helps lower viral load and boosts the immune system, allowing people living with HIV to stay healthier longer.
- Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission: Pregnant women with HIV may take zidovudine during pregnancy, labor, and delivery to dramatically reduce the risk of passing the virus to their baby.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Healthcare workers or others exposed to HIV (for example, through a needlestick injury) may use this medicine as part of a PEP regimen to prevent infection.
How It’s Taken (Dosage Overview)
- Zidovudine comes in tablets, capsules, oral solutions, and intravenous (IV) forms for hospital use.
- The dose depends on:
- The reason for use (treatment vs. prevention)
- The patient’s body weight
- Other medications are being used
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking zidovudine.
Possible Side Effects
While zidovudine can be life-saving, it can cause side effects, some mild and some more serious.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Anemia (low red blood cells)
- Neutropenia (low white blood cells)
Serious Side Effects (Less Common):
- Lactic acidosis (a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the blood)
- Severe liver problems (hepatomegaly with steatosis — enlarged fatty liver)
- Muscle weakness (myopathy)
If you experience unusual symptoms, especially severe fatigue, breathing trouble, or muscle pain, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions to Know
- Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to watch for anemia, neutropenia, and liver problems.
- Pregnancy: Zidovudine can help prevent transmission of HIV to the baby, but its use during pregnancy should be carefully considered based on risks and benefits.
- Breastfeeding: Women with HIV are advised not to breastfeed, regardless of zidovudine use, to avoid passing the virus to the infant.
Drug Interactions
- Stavudine (another NRTI): Using both together is avoided because they cancel out each other’s effects.
- Ribavirin (used for hepatitis C): Can increase the risk of dangerous side effects like lactic acidosis.
- Other bone marrow suppressing agents: May increase the risk of blood-related toxicities (like anemia).
Always provide your healthcare provider with a full list of medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Conclusion
Zidovudine has played a historic role in improving the lives of people with HIV/AIDS. It remains a valuable medication for treating HIV, preventing transmission during pregnancy, and reducing the risk of infection after exposure.
While effective, zidovudine requires careful monitoring to catch potential side effects early. Always take it exactly as prescribed and maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare team for the best outcomes.