Azidothymidine (Timazid)

Azidotimidine, also known by the brand name Timazide, is an antiviral drug belonging to the nucleoside class. It is widely used to treat HIV infection in adults and children in combination with other antiretroviral drugs.

The drug is produced in Russia by the companies AZT, AZT-Pharma and Biopharma. It is available in several dosage forms, including 100 mg capsules, 0.5 g standard unit and substance. The active substance is zidovudine.

Indications for use

Azidotimidine is used to treat HIV infection in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. It helps slow the progression of HIV and improve the quality of life of patients living with HIV.

Contraindications

Azidotimidine should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to the drug, leukopenia (neutrophil count below 750/μl), anemia (hemoglobin content less than 7.5 g/dl), thrombocytopenia (decrease in platelet count to 25,000/μl), renal and/or liver failure ( cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis) and in children under 3 years of age.

Relative contraindications to the use of the drug are vomiting and severe nausea.

Side effects

Azidotimidine can cause a number of side effects, including anemia, neutropenia and leukopenia, dyspeptic disorders (nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence), increased blood activity of “liver” transaminases, hypercreatininemia, increased serum amylase activity, fever , development of secondary infection, headache, rash, muscle pain, paresthesia, insomnia, discomfort, asthenia, drowsiness, taste disturbance, cardialgia, depression, increased urination, chills and cough.

Interaction with other drugs

The combined use of paracetamol with zidovudine increases the incidence of neutropenia, apparently due to inhibition of the metabolism of zidovudine. Other drugs, such as acetylsalicylic acid, morphine, codeine, indomethacin, oxazepam, cimetidine, clofibrate, can also alter the metabolism of zidovudine. It is generally recommended that you consult your doctor before taking any other medicines with azidothymidine.

Dosage and method of administration

The dosage of azidothymidine depends on the age and weight of the patient, the stage of HIV infection and concomitant diseases. Azidothymidine 250 mg twice daily is generally recommended for adults and children over 12 years of age. For children aged 3 to 12 years, the dosage may be reduced to 160 mg twice daily.

Azidotimidine can be taken by mouth as capsules or tablets, with or without food. For the best effect, the drug should be taken regularly at the same time every day, without missing a dose.

In conclusion, azidothymidine is an important drug for the treatment of HIV infection in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and take the drug regularly to achieve the best effect and prevent side effects.