zidovudine (ZDV) /zīdov″ədēn/ , a pyrimidine nucleoside analog active against human immunodeficiency virus. Formerly called azidothymidine. ▪ INDICATIONS: Its function is to inhibit the reverse transcriptase enzyme of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is used in combination with other antiretroviral medications in the management of patients with HIV infection who have some evidence of impaired immunity. It also may be used for prophylaxis after exposure to HIV. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It must be used cautiously in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function. It must also be used cautiously in patients with preexisting bone marrow suppression. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Headache, GI disturbances, insomnia, flulike symptoms, rash, fatigue, myalgia, and central nervous system symptoms may occur during the first weeks of therapy. The drug may cause granulocytopenia and macrocytic anemia, particularly in patients with advanced HIV disease.
