Classification:
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI)Form:
- 100mg capsule (white/blue capsule)
- 300mg tablet (white; round)
- 10mg/cc oral solution
There is a liquid formulation as well, used primarily in children.
AZT is also used intraveneously during delivery as part of the protocol for decreasing transmission from pregnant HIV positive mom to child.
Dosage:
One 300mg tablet twice each day or three 100mg capsules twice each day.Lower doses are used in patients with renal disease and in children.
Side effects to report to your doctor:
- Headache
- Nausea / vomiting / diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue or weakness
- Nasal symptoms (runny nose, cold symptoms)
- Anemia (low blood count) whose symptoms include
- tiredness
- fatigue
- weakness
- shortness of breath
- pale skin tone
Drug interactions:
Zerit will decrease the effectiveness of AZT and therefore should not be used in a regimen containing AZT.Instructions:
- May be taken with or without food but taking with food may help reduce nausea.
- Keep appointments for blood draws to monitor blood counts.
For More Information:
To learn more about Retrovir (AZT), try About.com's Drug Finder.More medication fact sheets
