Zidovudine
Zidovudine Information

About Zidovudine

Zidovudine is a synthetic dideoxynucleoside antiviral agent. It was first synthesized as an antineoplastic drug in the 1960s. In 1985, it was found to inhibit the in vitro infectivity of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1), although it was known to possess antiviral activity as early as 1974. Zidovudine is active against other retroviruses and some bacteria, but its sole indication is for the treatment and prevention of HIV infection in adults and children. On a weight basis, Zidovudine is more active than didanosine, but less active than zalcitabine, against HIV-1. It was approved by the FDA in March 1987.

Indications

Zidovudine is primarily indicated in conditions like AIDS, HIV infection.

Contraindication

Zidovudine is contraindicated in conditions like Anaemia,Neutropenia.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Zidovudine, which give rise to further complications include Polymyositis, Encephalitis.Zidovudine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anemia, Neutropenia, Leucopenia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Zidovudine therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Zidovudine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Nausea, Insomnia.

Warnings

Zidovudine should be used with caution in patients with history of anemia, bleeding or other blood problems, liver or kidney disease or any allergy. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Avoid zidovudine during lactation to prevent transmission of HIV to child that may not be infected.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, patients suffering from Liver Malfunction, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.