Zidovudine
Zidovudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor used as one component of selected HIV infection regimens, and in specific specialist prevention settings. It must not be used as stand-alone treatment.
Key points
- Anaemia and low white-cell counts require blood monitoring.
- Long-term exposure can cause muscle weakness or pain and mitochondrial toxicity.
- Combination products and single-ingredient zidovudine are not interchangeable without regimen review.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on specialist regimen assessment, prescription, monitoring and pharmacy checks.
Important safety checks
Review blood counts, liver and kidney function, muscle symptoms, pregnancy, prior antiretroviral treatment and all medicines, especially other marrow-suppressing treatments.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, fainting, profound weakness, severe abdominal pain with rapid breathing, yellow skin or eyes, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.