Zidovudine IV
Generic Name: ZIDOVUDINE - INJECTIONPronounced: (zye-DOE-vue-deen)
Zidovudine IV Uses
This drug is used in combination with other medications to help control your HIV infection, thereby improving your quality of life. It also lowers your risk of getting HIV disease complications (e.g., new infections, cancers). Zidovudine is also used to help prevent an HIV-positive pregnant mother from passing HIV to her unborn infant. Zidovudine belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.
Zidovudine is not a cure for HIV infection, and it does not prevent the spread of HIV to others through sexual contact or blood contamination (e.g., sharing used needles).
How To Use Zidovudine IV
This medication is given only in the hospital by a healthcare professional. It is given slowly into a vein by injection or an IV, usually 5-6 times daily or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage is based on your weight, liver function, kidney function, medical condition, and response to therapy.
Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.
Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
It is very important to continue using this medication (and other anti-HIV medications) exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, use this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Do not use more or less of this drug than prescribed, or stop using it (or other HIV medicines) even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause the amount of virus to increase, make the infection more difficult to treat (resistant), or worsen side effects.
