Zalcitabine
Zalcitabine is an antiretroviral medication classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It was previously used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. The medication works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for viral replication.
An NRTI antiretroviral used to treat HIV infection in combination with other medications.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J05AF03
- RxNorm
- 3363
- Generic
- Zalcitabine
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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, typically used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs when other regimens were not suitable.
As a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, zalcitabine is converted intracellularly to its active form, which competes with natural nucleotides and gets incorporated into viral DNA, leading to chain termination and inhibition of viral replication.
This medication was voluntarily withdrawn from the market in 2002 due to safety concerns, including reports of severe adverse effects. It is no longer available for clinical use. Patients currently on HIV therapy should consult their healthcare provider about safer, modern alternatives.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy