Zidovudine (AZT) – What You Need to Know

If you or someone you love has been prescribed zidovudine, you probably have a lot of questions. Zidovudine, also called AZT, is one of the first drugs used to treat HIV. It belongs to a class called nucleoside reverse‑transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that block the virus from copying itself. Understanding how it works, the right way to take it, and what to watch for can make the treatment smoother and safer.

How Zidovudine Works

When HIV tries to turn your cells into virus‑making factories, zidovudine jumps in and tricks the virus’s enzyme. The enzyme thinks the drug is a building block of DNA, but it can’t be used, so the virus stalls and can’t multiply. This slows down the infection and gives your immune system a chance to recover. The effect isn’t a cure, but it helps keep the virus at bay and reduces the risk of AIDS‑related complications.

Dosage and Safety Tips

Doctors usually start adults on 300 mg twice a day, taken with food to lessen stomach upset. Children’s doses are based on weight, so follow the prescription exactly. Never skip a dose—missing one can let the virus rebound. If you forget, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose; then just skip the missed one and stay on schedule.

Common side effects include nausea, headache, and mild fatigue. Most people notice these in the first few weeks and they often fade. If you get a high fever, severe belly pain, or unexplained bruising, call your doctor right away—these could signal a more serious problem like liver issues or low blood counts.

Before you begin zidovudine, tell your doctor about any other medicines you’re using. It can interact with certain antibiotics, antivirals, and drugs that affect the liver. Alcohol can make liver irritation worse, so limit drinks while you’re on treatment. Also, keep regular blood tests as your doctor orders; they’ll check your blood cells and liver function to catch any issues early.

Getting zidovudine safely online is possible, but you need to be careful. Choose a pharmacy that requires a prescription, shows a valid pharmacy license, and has clear contact info. Look for reviews that mention reliable shipping and authentic medication. Avoid sites that sell the drug without a prescription—those products could be fake or contaminated.

Storing zidovudine is simple: keep the tablets in a dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If you use the liquid form, discard any leftovers after two weeks; the syrup can lose potency. Always keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Finally, remember that zidovudine works best when combined with other HIV medicines. Your doctor will set up a regimen that includes at least two other drugs, forming a powerful “cocktail” that keeps the virus under control. Stick to the schedule, attend all follow‑up appointments, and talk openly with your healthcare team about how you feel. With the right mindset and a bit of vigilance, zidovudine can be a solid part of living a healthier life with HIV.