Brief information about it:
Zidovudine, also known as azidothymidine (AZT), is a medication primarily used to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS.
Uses:
· Treatment of HIV/AIDS: It is used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to slow the progression of HIV infection and reduce the risk of opportunistic infections.
· Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT): Zidovudine is used to prevent the transmission of HIV from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Mechanism of action:
Zidovudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by interfering with the HIV virus’s ability to replicate itself. It does this by mimicking a building block of DNA, tricking the virus into incorporating it into its genetic material. This ultimately stops the virus from replicating.
Elimination half life:
The half-life of zidovudine is approximately 1 hour.
Route of Administration:
Zidovudine is typically administered orally in tablet form.
Side effects:
Common side effects of zidovudine include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Muscle aches
More serious side effects, although rare, can include:
- Liver damage
- Pancreatitis
- Severe anemia
Dose:
The dosage of zidovudine varies depending on the individual and the specific treatment regimen. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare provider for any adjustments
Precautions:
· Liver Function: Zidovudine can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes is necessary.
· Bone Marrow Suppression: Zidovudine can suppress bone marrow, leading to anemia. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor blood cell counts.
· Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Zidovudine can be harmful to a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.
· Drug Interactions: Zidovudine can interact with other medications, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
