Retrovir (Zidovudine)

How does Retrovir work?

Zidovudine belongs to the class of antivirals known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. It is known to act by blocking the enzyme reverse transcriptase which is used by HIV to manufacture DNA, thus reduces the replication of virus.

How should Retrovir be used?

Retrovir is available in the form of a capsule or syrup to be taken by mouth, with or without food. The suggested dose of this drug is 600 mg per day in divided doses. Never take this drug in overdose, as it may result in serious reactions such as fever, itching, wheezing, chest rigidity, bad cough, blue or gray skin colour, convulsions, or inflammation on face, lips, tongue, or throat. In such cases, you must immediately call any nearby poison control center or nearby doctor for medical help.

What to do if you miss a Retrovir dose?

Take the dose you missed as soon as you think about it. If it is close to your next dose, you can leave behind the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Avoid the intake of two doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this medicine without discussing with your doctor.

What are the common side effects of Retrovir capsule?

Common side effects of Zidovudine may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of blood
• Breathing problems
• Sore throat
• Inflamed tongue
• Upset stomach or throwing up

A number of small meals, good oral care, having sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may be a great help.

Can you take other medications with Retrovir?

Sometimes certain medications are not safe when taken in conjuction with other drugs/herbal supplements.

Taking them together can result in certain bad side effects. Such medications may include:

• Chemotherapy drugs for cancer
• Doxorubicin
• Paracetamol
• Codeine
• Morphine
• Acetylsalicylic acid
• Indomethacin
• Ketoprofen

other analgesics that may lower down the process of Retrovir digestion.

What precautions you should take before taking Retrovir capsule?

• You must not take this drug if you have any kidney or liver disease.
• Avoid the use of Retrovir capsule in case of low blood counts, such as low white cell, platelet, or red blood cell counts.
• If you suffer from an abnormal hypersensitive reaction to Zidovudine, or any similar drug; you must not take this medicine.
• If you are pregnant, then in such a case this drug is not good for you and your baby.
• Also it is recommended not to breastfeed if you are infected with HIV or if you are taking a capsule of Retrovir as it is not safe for the baby

Is it safe to buy Retrovir from a Online Pharmacy?