Retrovir (Zidovudine): Dosage and Side Effects

Retrovir, also known as zidovudine, is an antiretroviral drug used in the treatment of HIV infection to reduce the viral load and enhance immune function.

Retrovir FAQ

Image credit: farmaceuticos.com

What is Retrovir used for?

Written by Cerner Multum. What is Retrovir? Retrovir is an antiviral medicine used to treat HIV, the virus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This medicine is also given during pregnancy to prevent an HIV-infected woman from passing the virus to her baby.

Does Retrovir cure HIV or AIDS?

This medicine does not cure HIV or AIDS, but combinations of drugs may slow progress of the disease. What Is Retrovir used for? Retrovir is a prescription medication used to treat patients diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

How does Retrovir help a pregnant woman with HIV?

It is used together with other HIV medications to lower the amount of virus in the body and keeps it from multiplying. This helps your immune system to function better. Retrovir is also used in pregnant women with HIV as it prevents the virus from passing to the unborn baby.

Why do you need to take Retrovir every day?

This is especially important for any medicines that might have an effect on your liver, kidneys, red or white blood cells or other cells in the body. RETROVIR helps to control your condition, but it is not a cure for HIV infection. You need to keep taking it everyday to stop your illness from getting worse.

What are the side effects of Retrovir?

liver problems--swelling around your midsection, right-sided upper stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Retrovir affects your immune system, which may cause certain side effects (even weeks or months after you've used Retrovir). Tell your doctor if you have:

Can I use Retrovir If I have HIV?

Using Retrovir will not prevent your disease from spreading. Do not have unprotected sex or share razors or toothbrushes. Talk with your doctor about safe ways to prevent HIV transmission during sex. Sharing drug or medicine needles is never safe, even for a healthy person.

How do you take Retrovir oral?

Use the medicine exactly as directed. Retrovir oral is taken by mouth, usually in combination with other antiviral medications. Retrovir injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth. Retrovir oral can be taken with or without food.