Retrovir (zidovudine) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) indicated for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. As one of the first antiretroviral agents developed, it remains a foundational component in many combination regimens. This medication works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, thereby impeding viral replication and reducing viral load. Retrovir is typically used in conjunction with other antiretroviral agents to construct a robust therapeutic strategy aimed at long-term viral suppression and immune reconstitution.

Features

• Contains zidovudine 300 mg as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in tablet and oral solution formulations for flexible dosing
• Demonstrated efficacy in reducing maternal-fetal HIV transmission
• Compatible with numerous other antiretroviral agents for combination therapy
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards ensuring pharmaceutical-grade purity

Benefits

• Effectively suppresses HIV replication when used in combination therapy
• Helps maintain or increase CD4 cell counts, supporting immune function
• Reduces the risk of HIV-related complications and opportunistic infections
• Can significantly decrease the probability of perinatal HIV transmission
• Contributes to improved long-term survival rates for HIV-positive individuals
• Supports adherence through well-established dosing protocols

Common use

Retrovir is primarily prescribed as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for the management of HIV-1 infection in adults and children. It is also used for the prevention of maternal-fetal HIV transmission during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, as well as for prophylaxis in newborns exposed to HIV. Healthcare providers may consider Retrovir in post-exposure prophylaxis protocols following occupational or non-occupational exposure to HIV-contaminated materials, though other regimens are often preferred based on current guidelines.

Dosage and direction

Adults: The recommended dosage is 300 mg twice daily or 200 mg three times daily. Children: Dosage is based on body weight and surface area, typically ranging from 180-240 mg/m² every 6 hours (not to exceed 200 mg every 6 hours). Perinatal transmission prevention: Pregnant individuals (after 14 weeks gestation) receive 100 mg orally five times daily until labor begins, then intravenous administration during labor and delivery. Newborns: Receive 2 mg/kg orally every 6 hours beginning within 12 hours after birth and continuing for 6 weeks. All dosing should be adjusted for renal impairment and monitored for hematologic parameters.

Precautions

Regular monitoring of complete blood counts is essential due to the risk of hematologic toxicity, particularly anemia and neutropenia. Hepatic function should be assessed periodically, as hepatic decompensation has been reported. Patients with pre-existing bone marrow compromise or hepatic impairment require careful dose evaluation and more frequent monitoring. Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with nucleoside analogues. Patients should be advised regarding the potential for myopathy and lipodystrophy with long-term use.

Contraindications

Retrovir is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to zidovudine or any component of the formulation. It should not be administered to individuals with potentially life-threatening allergic reactions to any of the product components. Concomitant use with stavudine is contraindicated due to antagonistic antiviral effects. Combination with ribavirin is contraindicated due to increased risk of mitochondrial toxicity and lactic acidosis.

Possible side effects

Common: Headache (35-45%), nausea (40-51%), insomnia (20-25%), asthenia (40-45%), fever (10-15%). Hematologic: Anemia (1-4%), neutropenia (2-6%), thrombocytopenia (1-2%). Gastrointestinal: Vomiting (15-20%), diarrhea (15-18%), abdominal pain (8-12%). Neurologic: Dizziness (5-8%), paresthesia (5-7%). Dermatologic: Rash (5-10%), pigmentation changes (3-5%). Serious: Lactic acidosis, hepatic steatosis, myopathy, cardiomyopathy, pancytopenia.

Drug interaction

Significant interactions: Concomitant use with bone marrow suppressive agents (e.g., ganciclovir, interferon-alpha, cytotoxic chemotherapy) may increase hematologic toxicity. Probenecid may decrease zidovudine clearance, increasing exposure. Ribavirin and other nucleoside analogues may increase mitochondrial toxicity risk. Phenytoin levels may be altered, requiring monitoring. Methadone may increase zidovudine levels. Clarithromycin may decrease zidovudine absorption.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistent adherence to the prescribed regimen is critical for maintaining viral suppression and preventing resistance development.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and hematologic disturbances. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis have been shown to enhance zidovudine elimination. Management should include supportive measures and monitoring of hematologic parameters. There is no specific antidote for zidovudine overdose. Cases of fatal overdose have been reported at doses exceeding 50 grams.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep in the original container with the cap tightly closed to protect from moisture. Do not store in bathroom cabinets or other humid areas. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use if the product appears discolored or shows signs of deterioration. Oral solution should be used within the specified period after opening as indicated in the product labeling.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Retrovir should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient characteristics, laboratory parameters, and current treatment guidelines. The prescriber should be familiar with the complete prescribing information and potential adverse effects before initiating therapy.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated that Retrovir-containing regimens achieve viral suppression in approximately 60-70% of treatment-naïve patients at 48 weeks. The medication has shown particular efficacy in reducing perinatal transmission rates from 25.5% to 8.3% when used according to established protocols. Long-term follow-up studies indicate sustained virologic response in compliant patients, though hematologic monitoring remains crucial. Many clinicians appreciate its well-characterized safety profile and extensive clinical experience spanning decades of use.