Generally, the starting dose of zidovudine is 500-600 mg/day. Zidovudine can be taken with or without food. Your dosage is______________.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of zidovudine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for your next dose, do not double the
dose, just carry on with your regular schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Serious effects of zidovudine that may occur include anemia (a reduced number of red blood cells that can make you feel
tired or short of breath), or leucopenia (a decrease in the number of white blood cells so that you have a higher risk of
bacterial infection). These adverse effects usually occur after you have been on the drug for a long period of time.. Inform
your physician if you notice any symptoms of fever, chills, shortness of breath, palpitations, or fatigue.
Other effects that may occur include dizziness, headache, mild confusion, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, or
muscle aches. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR
PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
The chance of adverse effects is increased if you take higher doses of zidovudine than what has been prescribed.
As well, you should not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor first, even if you begin to feel
better. Be sure to maintain regular medical visits and to inform your doctor of any new medical problems that develop
while you are taking zidovudine, as it is still possible for you to develop infections and other complications.
Other medications may affect the way zidovudine works and so increase the chance of side effects. Also, zidovudine
may affect the way other medications work. Therefore, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and
non-prescription medications you are taking, and do not start taking other medications without discussing this first.
Please inform your physician if you are pregnant. There are guidelines available for the use of zidovudine during pregnancy that may help to reduce the risk of transmission of HIV to the baby.
How should this medication be STORED?
Zidovudine should be stored in a cool (15-30°C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children.
Do not store in your bathroom or kitchen, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR
PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
