viro z 300mg tablet - Zidovudine (300mg) medicine

Viro Z 300mg Tablet (Zidovudine): Complete Medicine Guide

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Zidovudine (300mg)
🏭 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Zidovudine is recommended for use in pregnancy to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV and for treatment of HIV infection in pregnant women. The benefits generally outweigh the risks when used as part of effective antiretroviral therapy. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Rapid breathing, severe weakness, or muscle pain that could indicate lactic acidosis.
  • Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain suggesting liver problems.
  • Unusual tiredness, pale skin, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat suggesting severe anemia.
  • Fever, sore throat, or other signs of infection suggesting neutropenia.
  • Severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back with nausea or vomiting suggesting pancreatitis.
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing suggesting a severe allergic reaction.
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet suggesting peripheral neuropathy.
  • Muscle weakness or muscle pain that does not improve with rest suggesting myopathy.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is viro z 300mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains zidovudine 300 mg, an antiretroviral medicine used in combination therapy for HIV-1 infection and to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. It works by blocking reverse transcriptase, an enzyme the virus needs to replicate. It must be taken exactly as prescribed and requires regular blood tests.

  • Generic Name: Zidovudine (300mg)
  • Manufacturer: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 viro z 300mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ज़िडोव्यूडीन 300 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक एंटीरेट्रोवायरल टैबलेट है। इसका उपयोग एचआईवी-1 संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए अन्य एंटीरेट्रोवायरल दवाओं के संयोजन में किया जाता है। यह मां से बच्चे में एचआईवी संक्रमण को रोकने के लिए भी दी जाती है। यह वायरस के प्रजनन को रोककर शरीर में वायरस की मात्रा कम करती है और प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को मजबूत बनाने में मदद करती है। यह दवा एचआईवी का इलाज नहीं है और इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना बंद नहीं करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट में असहजता, भूख न लगना, थकान, बुखार, दाने और मांसपेशियों में दर्द शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों में खून की कमी (एनीमिया), सफेद रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी (न्यूट्रोपेनिया) या प्लेटलेट्स की कमी हो सकती है। लैक्टिक एसिडोसिस और गंभीर यकृत समस्या दुर्लभ लेकिन गंभीर हो सकती है। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी और नसों में दर्द हो सकता है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। दवा की खुराक बदलें या बंद करने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। नियमित रूप से खून की जांच, लिवर की जांच और वायरल लोड की निगरानी करवाएं। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे लिवर और पैंक्रियाज की समस्या बढ़ सकती है। गर्भावस्था की योजना बनाने से पहले डॉक्टर से बात करें। दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर सूखी जगह पर रखें। यदि खुराक छूट जाए तो याद आते ही लें, लेकिन अगली खुराक का समय नजदीक हो तो छोड़ दें और दोहरी खुराक न लें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 viro z 300mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection","description":"Used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy to suppress viral replication, improve CD4 cell counts, and reduce HIV-related illness and death in adults and children.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV","description":"Given to pregnant women living with HIV who are not already on effective antiretroviral therapy, and sometimes to the newborn, to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Occupational and non-occupational HIV post-exposure prophylaxis","description":"May be included in a combination regimen after significant exposure to HIV, although other medicines are often preferred in current guidelines.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders","description":"Sometimes included in regimens because zidovudine penetrates the central nervous system, but evidence for benefit is limited and other agents are often preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"HTLV-1 associated diseases","description":"Rarely used in some HTLV-1 related conditions, but this is not a standard approved use and evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection

Also treats: Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, HIV post-exposure prophylaxis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Zidovudine (300mg)
Brand Nameviro z 300mg tablet
ManufacturerSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassNucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Do not refrigerate unless specified by the manufacturer.
Shelf LifeRefer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineZidovudine is included in some World Health Organization (WHO) treatment guidelines as an alternative nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor in combination antiretroviral therapy, and it is recommended for prevention of mother-to-child transmission in certain situations. Always follow the latest national guidelines.
ICMR GuidelineIndian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines for HIV management include zidovudine as an option in combination antiretroviral therapy and for prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Follow the latest ICMR and National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) recommendations.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed, at the same times each day, to keep the virus suppressed.
2
Never stop this medicine without consulting your doctor, as stopping can lead to drug resistance.
3
Get regular blood tests to monitor for anemia, neutropenia, and liver problems.
4
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of liver and pancreatic problems.
5
Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
6
Report any unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or signs of infection immediately.
7
If you are pregnant, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor to prevent passing HIV to your baby.
8
Use effective contraception if you are of childbearing age and not planning pregnancy, unless advised otherwise.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
HIV infection
This medicine is used as part of combination therapy for HIV.
Likely Use
✅
Pregnancy in a woman living with HIV
This medicine is used to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
Likely Use
❌
Common cold
This medicine is not used for common cold or flu.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionZidovudine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. The absolute bioavailability in adults is approximately 60% to 70%. Food may slightly reduce the peak concentration but does not significantly affect overall absorption.
DistributionZidovudine distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid, semen, and breast milk. It crosses the placenta. The apparent volume of distribution is approximately 1.6 L/kg in adults.
Protein BindingZidovudine is approximately 25% to 38% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismZidovudine is primarily metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation to an inactive metabolite, 3'-azido-3'-deoxy-5'-beta-D-glucopyranuronosylthymidine (GZDV). A minor pathway involves reduction to 3'-amino-3'-deoxythymidine (AMT).
Half-LifeThe plasma elimination half-life of zidovudine is approximately 0.5 to 3 hours in adults. The intracellular half-life of the active triphosphate is approximately 3 to 4 hours.
ExcretionZidovudine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Approximately 14% of an administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine, and about 74% is excreted as the glucuronide metabolite.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of zidovudine in adults is approximately 60% to 70%.
Onset of ActionAntiviral effects begin after intracellular phosphorylation, but a measurable reduction in viral load is usually seen within weeks of starting effective combination therapy.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 0.5 to 1.5 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe antiviral effect persists with regular dosing. The plasma half-life is short, so multiple daily doses are needed for adequate exposure.

How It Works

Zidovudine is a thymidine analogue that must be phosphorylated inside host cells to its active triphosphate form. The active triphosphate competes with the natural substrate deoxythymidine triphosphate and is incorporated into viral DNA by reverse transcriptase. Because zidovudine lacks a 3'-hydroxyl group, its incorporation terminates further DNA chain elongation. This inhibits reverse transcription of viral RNA into DNA, which is an essential step in HIV replication. Zidovudine has greater affinity for HIV reverse transcriptase than for human cellular DNA polymerases, which contributes to its selective antiviral activity.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cellular uptake: Zidovudine enters cells and is converted by cellular kinases to zidovudine monophosphate, then diphosphate, and finally to the active triphosphate form.
2
Competition with natural substrate: Zidovudine triphosphate competes with the natural nucleotide deoxythymidine triphosphate for binding to HIV reverse transcriptase.
3
DNA chain incorporation: Reverse transcriptase incorporates zidovudine triphosphate into the growing viral DNA chain.
4
Chain termination: Because zidovudine lacks a 3'-hydroxyl group, no further nucleotides can be added, and viral DNA synthesis stops.
5
Inhibition of viral replication: The incomplete viral DNA cannot integrate and replicate, so the virus cannot multiply effectively.

💡 How to Take viro z 300mg tablet

Strength: Immediate-release tablet containing zidovudine 300 mg.

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Take it at the same times each day to maintain steady levels.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises otherwise.
6Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 300 mg taken orally twice daily in combination with other antiretroviral medicines. For prevention of mother-to-child transmission, the dose and duration are determined by the treating clinician based on the clinical situation. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and other medicines being taken.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information for this specific tablet strength. Consult a pediatrician or pediatric HIV specialist for weight-based dosing.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function and are more likely to experience side effects. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function and overall health.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 15 mL/min), dose reduction or increased dosing interval may be required. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with severe hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended adult dose is 600 mg per day (300 mg twice daily) unless otherwise directed by a qualified clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
May take with or without food
Taking with food may reduce stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver problems and pancreatitis.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of viro z 300mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually improves with rest and hydration. Consult your doctor if it persists or is severe.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food and avoid heavy, spicy meals. Contact your doctor if vomiting prevents you from keeping the medicine down.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest and report persistent tiredness to your doctor, as it may indicate anemia.
Abdominal discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take with meals and avoid alcohol. Seek care if pain is severe or persistent.
Rash (Uncommon (1-5%))
Report any rash to your doctor, especially if it spreads or is accompanied by fever.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe anemia (Uncommon to common in advanced HIV disease)
Seek medical attention if you experience unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, pale skin, or rapid heartbeat. Blood tests are needed.
Severe neutropenia (Uncommon)
Report fever, sore throat, or signs of infection immediately. Blood counts should be monitored.
Lactic acidosis (Rare)
Seek emergency care for rapid breathing, severe weakness, muscle pain, stomach pain, or drowsiness.
Severe hepatomegaly with steatosis (Rare)
Seek immediate care for yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Hypersensitivity reaction (Rare)
Stop the medicine and seek emergency care for swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Peripheral neuropathy
Report numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet to your doctor.
Myopathy
Report muscle weakness or muscle pain that does not improve with rest.
Pancreatitis
Seek immediate care for severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with nausea or vomiting.
Seizures
Seek emergency care if a seizure occurs.
Cardiomyopathy
Report chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling of the legs to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Stavudine Major
Doxorubicin Major
Ribavirin Major
Ganciclovir Major
Probenecid Major
Atovaquone Moderate
Fluconazole Moderate
Methadone Moderate
Valproic acid Moderate
Clarithromycin Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Stavudine
  • Doxorubicin
  • Ribavirin
  • Bone marrow suppressants (e.g., chemotherapy, ganciclovir)
  • Probenecid

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Atovaquone
  • Fluconazole
  • Methadone
  • Valproic acid
  • Clarithromycin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver toxicity and pancreatitis, and it may worsen fatigue and nausea.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to zidovudine or any component of the tablet","Severe neutropenia or severe anemia","Severe hepatic impairment","Concomitant use with stavudine"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis have been reported and can be fatal. Discontinue if suspected.","Blood counts should be monitored regularly because zidovudine can cause anemia and neutropenia.","Use with caution in patients with liver disease or risk factors for liver disease.","Dose adjustment is required in severe renal impairment.","Prolonged use may cause myopathy and peripheral neuropathy.","Do not use as monotherapy for HIV because resistance develops rapidly.","Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol.","Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or bruising promptly."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Zidovudine passes into breast milk. In many settings, breastfeeding is not recommended for women living with HIV when safe replacement feeding is available, because of the risk of HIV transmission. However, in some resource-limited settings, breastfeeding may be recommended while the mother and infant are on effective antiretroviral therapy. Follow local guidelines and your doctor's advice.

💊 Overdose Management

There is no specific antidote for zidovudine overdose. Management should be supportive and symptomatic. Monitor blood counts, liver function, and vital signs. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis may remove zidovudine and its metabolite, but the clinical benefit is uncertain. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without medical advice, because stopping can allow the virus to multiply and become resistant. This medicine is usually taken with other antiretroviral medicines, so keep all appointments and laboratory tests. Regular blood tests are needed to check your blood cell counts, liver function, and viral load. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, low blood counts, or a history of pancreatitis. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver problems and pancreatitis. Do not share this medicine with anyone else. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor because this medicine can be used to prevent passing HIV to your baby. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double the dose. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Seek immediate medical help if you develop rapid breathing, severe weakness, muscle pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced renal function and are more susceptible to anemia and other side effects. Regular monitoring of blood counts and renal function is important. Dose adjustment may be needed.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to review your antiretroviral regimen. This medicine is used in pregnancy to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Your doctor will adjust your treatment as needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medicines used during surgery. Continue taking it as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding if you have low platelet counts. Your dentist may take precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Take your medicine at the same times every day to maintain steady levels.
🥗
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support your immune system.
😴
Stay physically active with moderate exercise as tolerated.
💧
Get adequate sleep and manage stress.
🧘
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
🌞
Practice safe sex to prevent transmission of HIV and other infections.
🚭
Keep all medical appointments and laboratory tests.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe, but if you experience muscle weakness, pain, or fatigue, consult your doctor before continuing strenuous activity. Avoid excessive exercise if you have anemia or heart problems.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include protein-rich foods to support immune function.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables for vitamins and minerals.
Stay well hydrated.
Limit processed and high-fat foods.
Avoid alcohol.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue or dizziness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel unwell. Most people can continue their normal work and daily activities while taking this medicine.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects such as lactic acidosis, liver problems, or severe blood count abnormalities, your doctor may advise stopping or changing the medicine.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may cause persistent anemia, neutropenia, myopathy, and peripheral neuropathy. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, and viral load is essential. Some patients may develop lipodystrophy or metabolic changes. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other antiretroviral regimens

Tenofovir, abacavir, or other nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors may be used as alternatives based on resistance testing and patient factors.

Evidence: Well-established
Adherence support programs

Counseling and support groups can help patients adhere to complex antiretroviral regimens.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Patients living with HIV should receive appropriate vaccinations, including influenza, pneumococcal, hepatitis B, and others as recommended by their doctor. Live vaccines may be contraindicated in severely immunocompromised patients. Discuss with your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in the original container tightly closed

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

❌ DON'T

Do not store in the bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep enough supply for your entire trip, as refills may be difficult to obtain abroad. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines into your destination country. Carry a letter from your doctor stating your diagnosis and medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old pregnant woman living with HIV
She was started on this medicine as part of a combination regimen to prevent passing HIV to her baby. She took it regularly and attended all her prenatal appointments. Her viral load became undetectable, and she delivered a healthy baby who tested negative for HIV.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use of this medicine during pregnancy, along with regular medical care, greatly reduces the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
👤 A 45-year-old man newly diagnosed with HIV
He was prescribed this medicine along with other antiretrovirals. Initially, he experienced nausea and fatigue, which improved after taking the medicine with food. He kept all his laboratory appointments and his CD4 count gradually increased.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can reduce stomach upset, and regular monitoring helps ensure safe and effective treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working soon after you begin taking it, but it may take several weeks to months to see a significant reduction in viral load. Regular blood tests will monitor your response.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take this medicine with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: This medicine is used in pregnancy to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping can cause the virus to multiply and become resistant to treatment.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • Will it cure HIV?

🔄 Substitutes for viro z 300mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Zidovudine can cure HIV.
    Fact: Zidovudine does not cure HIV. It suppresses the virus and must be used lifelong with other antiretroviral medicines.
  • Myth: Zidovudine is no longer used.
    Fact: Zidovudine is still used in certain situations, including prevention of mother-to-child transmission and as an alternative in combination therapy.
  • Myth: You can stop zidovudine once you feel better.
    Fact: Stopping zidovudine without medical advice can cause the virus to rebound and become resistant.
  • Myth: Zidovudine is safe to take with any other medicine.
    Fact: Zidovudine interacts with several medicines, so always inform your doctor about all medicines you take.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Zidovudine 300 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Viro Z 300mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Zidovudine","class":"Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor","common_use":"HIV treatment, prevention of mother-to-child transmission","key_side_effects":"Anemia, neutropenia, nausea, headache, lactic acidosis"},{"medicine":"Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate","class":"Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor","common_use":"HIV treatment, hepatitis B","key_side_effects":"Kidney problems, decreased bone density"},{"medicine":"Abacavir","class":"Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor","common_use":"HIV treatment","key_side_effects":"Hypersensitivity reaction, nausea, headache"}]

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