Zidovudine Oral Solution (ZIDOVUDINE (AZT) - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • HIV
  • prevent infection

Brand Name(s): Retrovir

Generic Name: Zidovudine

Instructions

Drink the medicine.

Measure the dose of liquid medicine carefully. Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. If you do not have one, please ask your pharmacist for help.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Ask your doctor if any of your medicines need to be taken at the same time.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This medicine does not stop the spread of viruses that are passed through the blood or during sex.

Always use condoms during sex.

Do not share needles or other personal objects such as shavers or toothbrushes.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Use effective birth control to avoid pregnancy.

It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may affect areas where fat is stored in the body. This may change your body shape.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • drowsiness or sedation
  • changes in areas of body fat may alter your body shape
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • liver problems
  • nausea and vomiting
  • darkening of skin, especially hands, feet and mouth
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • unusual bruising or discoloration on skin
  • fever or chills
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • loss of movement anywhere on the body
  • muscle pain
  • muscle trembling or weakness
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • rapid breathing
  • shortness of breath
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • slurred speech
  • light colored stool
  • difficulty swallowing
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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