zidovudine
Last reviewed 01/2018
AZT is a synthetic thymidine analogue, used in the treatment of HIV infection. It is a prodrug, which undergoes phosphorylation in infected and uninfected cells, to its active form, zidovudine triphosphate. Zidovudine triphosphate interferes with nucleic acid chain synthesis by reverse transcriptase in infected cells.
Treatment with AZT alone provides short-term clinical benefit in patients with symptomatic HIV infection. However alone (as opposed to part of a triple therapy regimen) it does not postpone the development of HIV-related symptoms in patients who are asymptomatic but HIV positive.
Routes of administration:
- oral
- capsules
- syrup
- by intravenous infusion
Check the summary of product characteristics before prescribing this drug.