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Zidovudine Syrup

Generic name: Zidovudine Syrup [ zye-DOE-vyoo-deen ]
Brand name: Retrovir
Drug class: Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 23, 2024.

Warning

  • Low white and red blood cell counts have happened with zidovudine syrup. If white blood cell counts get low, the chance of getting an infection may be raised. If red blood cell counts get low, this can lead to anemia and a blood transfusion. If you have questions, talk with the doctor.
  • This medicine may cause muscle aches and stiffness if it is used for long periods of time. Closely read the part in this leaflet that lists when to call the doctor.
  • Rarely, zidovudine syrup may cause a swollen liver and a buildup of acid in the blood. Sometimes, this may be deadly. The risk may be higher in women, in overweight people, and in people who have taken drugs like this one for a long time.

Uses of Zidovudine Syrup:

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Zidovudine Syrup?

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with zidovudine syrup.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take zidovudine syrup with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Zidovudine Syrup?

For all patients taking zidovudine syrup:

For patients taking zidovudine syrup to treat HIV infection:

How is this medicine (Zidovudine Syrup) best taken?

Use zidovudine syrup as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

What are some other side effects of Zidovudine Syrup?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Zidovudine Syrup?

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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