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OTHER NAMES- AZT, Retrovir
WHY THIS MEDICATION IS GIVEN
Zidovudine is used in the treatment of HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS. 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 medicine may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Make sure your doctor knows if you have any of the following medical conditions:
HOW TO TAKE
Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Keep taking zidovudine for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better.
WHERE TO KEEP
Keep it in the bottle it came in and store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Keep the bottle out of reach of children.
IF YOU FORGET
If you do miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Zidovudine may cause headache (severe), muscle soreness, nausea, trouble in sleeping, or bluish-brown colored bands on nails. These effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they become bothersome, check with your doctor.
If you notice any fever, chills, or sore throat; pale skin; unusual tiredness or weakness; abdominal discomfort; confusion; convulsions (seizures); general feeling of discomfort; loss of appetite; mood or mental changes; muscle tenderness and weakness; nausea, contact your doctor immediately.
Note: Some of the above side effects may also occur up to weeks or months after you stop taking this medicine.