Information about Zidovudine (Generic Retrovir) :


Zidovudine is an antiviral drug used to treat HIV infection. This medicine blocks the reproduction of the HIV virus. It may also be administered in combination with other drugs to prevent women from passing the HIV virus to the fetus during pregnancy.

You should not use Zidovudine in case you have any condition mentioned below: you are allergic to any ingredient in Zidovudine; you have an enlarged liver, high lactic acid levels in the blood, or abnormal liver function tests; you are taking doxorubicin, ribavirin, stavudine, or any medicine that contains zidovudine.

In such cases it is obligatory to consult with your doctor or health care provider before taking this drug.

Before using Zidovudine:
Before using Zidovudine you should tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions listed below: you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding a baby; you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement; you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances; you have bone marrow problems, low white blood cell levels, or liver or kidney problems; you are very overweight.

Be aware that Zidovudine may interact with some medicines. Consult with your health care provider in case you are taking any other drugs, especially any of the following: Zalcitabine because severe pancreas problems may occur; fluconazole, ganciclovir, interferon alfa, probenecid, valproic acid, or any medicine that contains zidovudine because they may increase the risk of Zidovudine 's side effects; doxorubicin, ribavirin, or stavudine because they may decrease Zidovudine 's effectiveness.

It may not be a complete list of all interactions with other drugs. To prevent any complications you should check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Zidovudine:
Use this medicine as recommended by your physician. Use it regularly. Zidovudine is usually administered as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you are using Zidovudine at home, carefully follow the injection procedures taught to you by your doctor. Follow all prescribed recommendations strictly. Do not use Zidovudine in case it contains particles or is discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged in any way.

Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and away from pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Dispose of properly after use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain local regulations for proper disposal.

Do not stop taking Zidovudine even if you feel well. Try not to miss any doses.

In case you miss a dose of Zidovudine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next intake, skip the missed dose and take it according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to catch up.

Important safety information:
Your body's ability to fight infection may be lowered by Zidovudine. Try not to contact with people who have colds or other infections. Consult with your doctor in case you experience any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.

You should know that Zidovudine is not a cure for HIV infection. Infections or other illnesses that occur along with HIV may take place. It is obligatory for you to remain under the care of your physician.
Zidovudine is not effective way for prevention you from giving HIV to other people through contact with blood or through sex. You must use a barrier form of birth control (condoms) in case you have HIV. Avoid sharing needles, other injection supplies, or personal items (toothbrush, razor).

Some patients may have changes in body fat (eg, an increased amount of fat in the upper back, neck, breast, and trunk, and loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face) while using Zidovudine. The clear reason and long-term effects of these changes are not clear. Consult with your doctor and discuss any concerns.

Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood count, may be performed while you are using Zidovudine. It is important to control your progress or to check for side effects. Follow all doctor and lab appointments strictly.

Pregnant women should know that Zidovudine may not always prevent you properly from transmitting the HIV virus to the fetus. It is not clear whether Zidovudine may affect the baby later in life. Consult with your doctor before taking Zidovudine.

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING:
In case you become pregnant, consult with your doctor and discuss the benefits and risks of using Zidovudine during pregnancy. It is known that Zidovudine passes into breast milk. Avoid breast-feeding a baby while taking Zidovudine. HIV-infected mothers should not breast-feed their infants because of the risk of transmitting the HIV infection or Zidovudine.

Possible side effects of Zidovudine:
You should consult with your doctor in case you have any of side effects especially bothersome listed below: headache; loss of appetite; nausea; tiredness; vomiting.

Seek emergency immediately in case you have any of these severe side effects: severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chills; dark urine; drowsiness; fast breathing; fever; muscle pain or aches; red, swollen, or blistered skin; seizures; shortness of breath; sore throat; stomach pain; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

What is the expiration date of the pills?
This information is mentioned on each blister. The expiration date is 2 years from the date of manufacture.