University of Washington

AIDS Clinical Trials Group

Drug Information Sheet

Zidovudine

Other Names: AZT, ZDV, Retrovir^®

Manufacturer: Glaxo Wellcome

What is it?

AZT is an antiretroviral drug, specifically a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It is used to treat HIV, a retrovirus. Retroviruses use the genetic material in the body’s cells to produce more virus which can infect other cells.

How does it work?

AZT interferes with the life cycle of HIV to stop it from producing more virus. Specifically, AZT ties up the reverse transcriptase enzyme so it cannot build the genetic material needed to make more virus and infect more cells.

How do I take it?

· AZT is available as a 100 mg capsule and a 300 mg tablet.

· The usual dose of AZT is 300 mg (1 tablet) twice daily.

· AZT may be taken with or without food.

It is extremely important that you take AZT and your other antiretroviral medications exactly as directed. You should set up a system that will help you remember to take your medicines so that you do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; however, if you skip a dose, do not take two doses at once. Do not stop taking the medication for any reason at any time unless you are directed to do so by your study clinician. If you are unable to continue taking your medication due to side effects, you should contact your study clinician immediately.

Special Considerations

· AZT should be stored at controlled room temperature in a dry place, out of the reach of children.

• Please bring your medication bottles (empty and partially used) to each study visit.

Interactions

Some drugs taken together may have interactions that cause illness or impair the effectiveness of the drugs. It is a good idea to always check with your study clinician before taking any other medications, prescription or otherwise, to be sure it will not interact with AZT.

Some drugs that may increase the risk of toxicity if taken with AZT are:

• adriamycin
• amphotericin B
• aspirin
• dapsone
• flucytosine
• ganciclovir
• interferon
• indomethacin
• pentamidine
• probenecid
• vincristine
• vinblastine

Side Effects

Not everyone experiences side effects. When they do occur, they may be mild, moderate or severe. Some side effects cannot be felt by the patient but can be found through laboratory tests, so it is important to see your study clinician regularly for checkups so that side effects can be detected early and treated.

The most common side effects of AZT are headache, nausea, fatigue, muscle aches or pain, restlessness, skin rash, anemia (low red blood cell count), and neutropenia (low white blood cell count).

Symptoms of anemia or neutropenia that you may notice include unusual tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath, or any sign of infection. If you begin having these symptoms, please contact your study clinician.

Last Update: 7/15/99