zivudin (ZIDOVUDINE)
What is Zivudin?
Zivudin (AZT) is an antiviral medication used to treat HIV/AIDS. It belongs to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class and works by blocking the HIV virus from multiplying in the body. It helps reduce the amount of HIV in the blood and slows disease progression.
What is the usual dose of Zivudin?
For adults, the usual dose is 300 mg twice daily. For children, the dose is based on weight, typically 180–240 mg/m² every 12 hours. In newborns, it is given as 2 mg/kg every 6 hours to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
How do I take Zivudin?
Zivudin is a medicine used to prevent and treat HIV infection. It is usually taken twice a day by adults and children. Infants six weeks and younger may take it every six hours. There are no specific food restrictions when taking Zivudin, so you can maintain your normal diet.
For how long do I take Zivudin?
HIV treatment is lifelong. Zivudin is usually taken as part of a combination therapy with other antiretroviral drugs. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
What is Zivudin used for?
It is used to treat HIV infection and reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth. It is not a cure for HIV but helps control the virus.
How long does it take for Zivudin to start working?
It starts working within a few hours, but significant effects, like reduced viral load, may take weeks to months. Blood tests are used to monitor its effectiveness.
Is Zivudin effective?
Yes, studies show it significantly reduces HIV levels and delays disease progression. It was the first approved drug for HIV treatment and is still used today, especially in prevention strategies.
How does one know if Zivudin is working?
Zivudin's pharmacokinetics, how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a drug, are similar in adults, children over 3 months, and pregnant women. In neonates (newborns), the half-life (the time it takes for the body to eliminate half of the drug) is shorter, at 13 ± 5.8 hours.
How does Zivudin work?
It blocks the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing HIV from copying its genetic material and spreading in the body. This slows down the virus's growth.
Who should avoid taking Zivudin?
People with severe anemia, liver disease, or allergies to Zivudin should avoid it. It should be used cautiously in people with kidney disease.
Can I take Zivudin with vitamins or supplements?
Avoid high-dose vitamin C, iron, or folic acid, as they may affect red blood cells. Always consult a doctor before taking supplements.
Can I take Zivudin with other prescription drugs?
Zivudin interacts with ribavirin, ganciclovir, stavudine, and certain chemotherapy drugs, increasing the risk of anemia or liver damage. Inform your doctor of all medications you take.
Can Zivudin be taken safely while pregnant?
Yes, Zivudin is used in pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission. It is considered safe and effective during pregnancy.
Can Zivudin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
HIV-positive mothers are usually advised not to breastfeed, as the virus can pass through breast milk. Consult your doctor for safer feeding options.
Is Zivudin safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more prone to side effects like anemia and liver issues, requiring careful monitoring and dose adjustments.
How should I store Zivudin?
Store at room temperature (15–25°C), away from moisture and direct heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Does Zivudin make people tired or drowsy?
Yes, fatigue and muscle weakness are common side effects. If severe, consult your doctor.
Does Zivudin cause stomach upset?
Yes, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common. Taking it with food may help reduce discomfort.
Does Zivudin affect sleep?
Zivudin may cause difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. If you have trouble sleeping while taking Zivudin, talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to improve your sleep, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, or taking a melatonin supplement.
Does Zivudin make it hard to think or concentrate?
It may cause dizziness, confusion, or headaches in some people. Avoid activities requiring focus if you experience these effects.
Does Zivudin affect mood?
Rarely, it may cause depression, anxiety, or irritability. If mood changes occur, inform your doctor.
Does Zivudin interfere with sexual function?
It does not directly affect libido or sexual function, but fatigue and other side effects may impact performance.
Does Zivudin affect appetite?
It may cause loss of appetite in some people, but effects are usually mild.
Does Zivudin cause weight gain?
Weight changes are not common, but some people experience slight weight loss due to nausea or decreased appetite.
Does Zivudin cause headaches?
Yes, headaches are a common side effect but usually mild. If persistent or severe, consult a doctor.
Does Zivudin limit driving?
If you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Zivudin?
Alcohol can increase liver stress and worsen side effects like nausea and dizziness. It is best to limit or avoid alcohol.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Zivudin?
Caffeine does not directly interact with Zivudin but may worsen nausea or dizziness. If sensitive to caffeine, reduce intake.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Zivudin?
Moderate exercise is generally safe, but avoid overexertion if you experience fatigue or dizziness.
What are Zivudin possible harms and risks?
Common side effects include nausea, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. Serious side effects include anemia, liver problems, and lactic acidosis (rare but dangerous build-up of acid in the blood).
Available in 2 variations
Zivudin 100mg Tablet
Zivudin 100mg Tablet
Zidovudine (100mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Zivudin 300mg Tablet
Zivudin 300mg Tablet
Zidovudine (300mg)
strip of 10 tablets
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Zidovudine (100mg)
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