Zidovudine: Comprehensive Guide to HIV Medication and Dosage

Summary of Key Points

Zidovudine is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat HIV/AIDS and certain cancers. It works by slowing the growth of the virus in the body. This HIV medication is often combined with other drugs to enhance its effectiveness. Always take Zidovudine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to consult one of our telemedicine providers today.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Retrovir

Generic Name: Zidovudine

The generic name refers to the drug’s chemical composition, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this case, Zidovudine is the generic name.

Pharmacologic Category

Category: Antiretroviral, Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI)

Zidovudine belongs to a class of drugs known as Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs). These medications are commonly used in antiretroviral therapy to treat HIV by preventing the virus from replicating in the body.

Zidovudine Dosage

Zidovudine is prescribed for various conditions, and the dosage and frequency depend on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and never adjust your dose without consulting them. If you need to speak with a provider, you can do so through our telemedicine service.

Zidovudine Dosage for HIV/AIDS

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily or 200 mg orally three times daily.

Frequency: Twice or three times daily.

Length of Treatment: Ongoing, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Myeloproliferative Disorders

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Thymoma

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Lymphoblastic Lymphoma

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Multiple Myeloma

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Zidovudine Dosage for Hepatitis B

Adult Dose: 300 mg orally twice daily.

Frequency: Twice daily.

Length of Treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Zidovudine is available in the following forms and strengths:

1. Capsules: 100 mg
2. Tablets: 300 mg
3. Oral Solution: 50 mg/5 mL
4. Injection: 10 mg/mL

Administration Instructions for Zidovudine

Zidovudine can be taken with or without food. If using the oral solution, measure your dose carefully with a special measuring device or spoon. Avoid using a household spoon, as it may not provide an accurate dose. For the injection form, a healthcare provider will administer it. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.

Zidovudine Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Zidovudine can cause side effects. It’s important to be aware of these and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms. Here are some potential Zidovudine side effects:

Common Side Effects: Headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fatigue. These are generally mild and may improve over time.

Serious Side Effects: Anemia (low red blood cell count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), and liver problems. These require immediate medical attention.

Rare Side Effects: Muscle pain, lactic acidosis (a buildup of lactic acid in the blood), and pancreatitis. These are rare but serious and should be reported to your doctor right away.

If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about your treatment, contact your healthcare provider. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for further guidance.

Contraindications for Zidovudine

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a particular medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. If you have any of the following conditions, taking Zidovudine may not be safe for you:

Allergy to Zidovudine: If you have had an allergic reaction to Zidovudine or any of its components, taking this medication could cause severe allergic reactions, including rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling.

Severe liver disease: Zidovudine is processed by the liver, and if your liver is not functioning properly, it could lead to a buildup of the drug in your body, increasing the risk of serious side effects.

Low white blood cell count (neutropenia) or low red blood cell count (anemia): Zidovudine can further reduce these blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections and carrying oxygen throughout your body. If you already have low levels, taking Zidovudine could worsen your condition.

Kidney disease: Zidovudine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. If your kidneys are not functioning well, the drug may accumulate in your system, leading to toxicity.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Zidovudine, a commonly prescribed HIV medication, can interact with other drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either medication. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some important drug interactions with Zidovudine include:

1. Ribavirin (Copegus, Rebetol): Taking Zidovudine with Ribavirin may increase the risk of anemia.
2. Ganciclovir (Cytovene): This antiviral drug can raise the risk of bone marrow suppression when used with Zidovudine.
3. Interferon alfa (Intron A, Roferon-A): Combining these medications may heighten the risk of liver damage and blood cell abnormalities.
4. Stavudine (Zerit): Zidovudine and Stavudine should not be used together, as they can counteract each other’s effects.
5. Probenecid (Benemid): This gout medication can increase Zidovudine levels in your blood, potentially leading to toxicity.

Zidovudine in Pregnancy

Is it Safe to Take Zidovudine During Pregnancy?

Zidovudine is classified as a pregnancy category C drug by the FDA, meaning animal studies have shown some risk to the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in humans. However, Zidovudine is often prescribed to pregnant women with HIV to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits of taking Zidovudine. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

Zidovudine While Breastfeeding

Is it Safe to Take Zidovudine While Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is not recommended for women with HIV, as the virus can be passed to the baby through breast milk. While Zidovudine does pass into breast milk, the primary concern is the risk of HIV transmission. If you are HIV-positive and taking Zidovudine, breastfeeding should be avoided. Speak with one of our healthcare providers through telemedicine to explore safe alternatives for feeding your baby.

Estimated Cost of Zidovudine

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Zidovudine without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the pharmacy and dosage. Prices may vary, so it’s advisable to check with your local pharmacy or use a coupon service like GoodRX for the most up-to-date pricing.

Possible Alternatives to Zidovudine

If Zidovudine is not suitable for you, or if you are exploring alternative treatments, other options are available for the conditions Zidovudine is used to treat. Always discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your healthcare provider before making adjustments. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized advice.

1. HIV/AIDS: Other antiretroviral medications, such as Tenofovir (Viread) or Emtricitabine (Emtriva), may be considered. Additionally, lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can support overall health.
2. Kaposi’s Sarcoma: Alternatives include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. Managing HIV effectively is also crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.
3. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Treatment options may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplants. Discuss with your provider which option is best for your specific case.
4. Myeloproliferative Disorders: Medications like Hydroxyurea or interferon alfa may be used. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight, can help manage symptoms.
5. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Alternatives include targeted therapies like Ibrutinib (Imbruvica) or chemotherapy. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential for managing CLL.
6. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies. Maintaining a balanced diet and managing stress can support overall health during treatment.
7. Thymoma: Surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy may be considered. Discuss with your provider which treatment is most appropriate for your stage of thymoma.
8. Lymphoblastic Lymphoma: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are common treatments. Regular monitoring and supportive care are important to manage symptoms and side effects.
9. Multiple Myeloma: Treatment options include proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and stem cell transplants. Staying active and eating a balanced diet can help manage symptoms.
10. Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications like Tenofovir (Viread) or Entecavir (Baraclude) may be used. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet, can help protect your liver.

Recent Updates on Zidovudine Research

Recent studies have focused on the long-term effects of Zidovudine in combination with other antiretroviral therapies (ART) for HIV treatment. Research shows that while Zidovudine remains effective in reducing viral load, newer drugs with fewer side effects are increasingly preferred in many treatment regimens. Ongoing studies are also exploring the potential use of Zidovudine in treating other viral infections, though more research is needed in this area. If you have questions about whether Zidovudine is still the right choice for your treatment, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss the latest research and help you make an informed decision.

James Kingsley

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