Zidovudine
Combivir pairs 150 mg zidovudine with 300 mg lamivudine in a single tablet for HIV-1 infection. It is the brand-name version of this antiretroviral combination.
Key points
- Zidovudine belongs to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class and works by reducing the amount of HIV in the blood.
- It is also given to HIV-positive pregnant women to lower the chance of passing the infection to the baby.
- Zidovudine may decrease red and white blood cell counts, which can cause unusual bleeding, bruising, fever, or extreme tiredness.
About this product
Combivir is a fixed-dose combination: each tablet delivers 150 mg zidovudine alongside 300 mg lamivudine, so the two antiretrovirals are taken together in one dose rather than as separate pills. Zidovudine is also used in certain situations for people exposed to HIV through accidental contact with contaminated blood or body fluids. This product is listed under HIV Management alongside other antiretroviral combinations. Zidovudine controls HIV infection but does not cure it; missing doses or stopping the medication may make the condition more difficult to treat.