Generic Retrovir, capsules

Chemical Name: ZIDOVUDINE

Common uses

This medicine is an antiviral used to manage human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV). It is also used to prevent the transmission of HIV to the fetus during pregnancy.

Before using

Warning: this medicine has caused severe, even fatal, liver and blood problems (e.g., lactic acidosis, granulocytopenia, anemia), especially in people with advanced HIV infection. Prolonged use of zidovudine has caused muscle aches similar to those produced by HIV. Notify your doctor immediately if you have: dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal or stomach pain, unusual fatigue, muscle aches, rapid breathing, drowsiness, symptoms of infection such as persistent fever or sore throat. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking ganciclovir, probenecid, or zalcitabine. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Use this medicine on a regular schedule around the clock, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. It is important not to miss doses of this medicine. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not exceed the recommended dose of this medicine without checking with your doctor. Exceeding the recommended dose of this medicine may not provide additional benefits, and may increase the risks of side effects. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine. Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. This medicine will not prevent you from spreading HIV through sexual contact. If you have any questions concerning how to prevent the spreading of HIV, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This medicine may not prevent other infections. If your health changes, check with your doctor.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this drug is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include headache, nausea, difficulty sleeping, or muscle pain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience sore throat; chills; fever; unusual bleeding or bruising; or unusual tiredness or weakness. Changes in body fat may occur while you are taking this medicine (e.g., increased fat in the upper back and stomach areas, decreased fat in the arms and legs). The cause and long-term effects of these changes are unknown. Discuss the risks and benefits of therapy with your doctor, as well as the possible role of exercise to reduce this side effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, confusion, and seizures.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.