Zidovudine Injection

Instructions

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring your dose and using the syringe before using this medicine.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Before medicine is mixed, it may be stored at room temperature - below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

Protect medicine from light.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Discard any unused, mixed medicine after 8 hours at room temperature or 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Use this medicine at the same time each day.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

Do not share needles or other personal objects such as shavers or toothbrushes.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Use effective birth control to avoid pregnancy.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Because breast milk may transmit HIV, ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases.

Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
• decreased appetite
• changes in areas of body fat may alter your body shape
• lack of energy and tiredness
• headaches
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding or bruising
• rapid breathing
• confusion
• coughing
• drowsiness or sedation
• fever or chills
• swelling in the neck or throat
• numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• fast or irregular heart beats
• pain in the joints
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• muscle pain or weakness
• nervousness
• pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
• shortness of breath
• difficulty speaking
• severe stomach pain that spreads to the back
• difficulty swallowing
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• blurring or changes of vision
• unexpected or extreme weight loss

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.