Zidovudine is used alone or with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with or without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It will slow the spread of HIV infection in the body. Zidovudine is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Zidovudine does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people except when given to HIV-positive pregnant women. Zidovudine is given to HIV-positive pregnant women to prevent the infection from going to the baby. However, HIV infection may still occur in the infant despite this treatment.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

For more information on Zidovudine (Retrovir), click here.