Zidovudine
Retrovir (zidovudine) is an antiretroviral medication classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) used in the treatment of HIV infection. It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing the virus from replicating. The medication may be used alone or in combination with other antiretrovirals for HIV management and prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
Retrovir is an antiretroviral drug used to treat HIV infection by preventing viral replication.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202791
- Generic
- Retrovir
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children, and prevention of perinatal transmission of HIV from mother to child during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
As a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), Retrovir competes with natural nucleotides and incorporates into viral DNA, causing chain termination and blocking viral replication.
May cause bone marrow suppression (anemia, neutropenia), lactic acidosis, and myopathy. Requires regular blood monitoring. Should be used with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Drug interactions possible with other medications metabolized similarly.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy