ZIDOVUDINE

Indications

Asymptomatic and symptomatic HIV disease.

Dosage

Initially 200 mg 6 times daily. Thereafter 500 mg-1500 mg daily in 4-5 divided doses. Children over 3 months: 180 mg/sq mts 4 times daily not recommended for children below 3 months.

Contra-Indications

Low heamoglobin levels (less than 7.5g/deci litre). Low neutrophil cell count less than 0.75x10 to the power 9/litre lactation.

Special Precautions

Hepatic or renal impairment conduct blood tests at least every 2 weeks for the first 3 months of therapy, Followed by once every month. Dose adjustment is to be done if anaemia or myelo-suppression occurs or is present. Drug interaction occurs with analgesics especially paracetamol.

Side Effects

Anorexia, myalgia, insomnia, Nausea, rash, abdominal pain, fever, anaemia, neutro-penia, lucopenia.

Drug Interactions

Metabolism inhibited by aspirin, codeine, morphine, indomethacin, ketoprofen, naproxen, oxacepam, lorazepam, cimetidine, clofibrate, dapsone.Ribavirine (in vitro) antagonises zidovudine. Probenecid reduces renal excretion.