What it does
Lamivudine and zidovudine are medications used to treat HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
Commonly used for: HIV infection, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:49:29 · updated 2026-03-23 04:34:34
About this medicine
Lamivudine and zidovudine are medications used to treat HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
What it treats
- HIV infection
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
How it works
These medicines help control the HIV virus by preventing it from multiplying in the body, which helps to keep the immune system stronger.
Who it's for
This treatment is for people living with HIV to help manage their condition.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: lamivudinezidovudine
Lamivudine and zidovudine are antiretroviral medications used in combination for the treatment of HIV infection. Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme, while zidovudine, also an NRTI, works similarly by interfering with viral RNA-dependent DNA synthesis. The combination of these drugs helps to decrease the viral load in HIV-infected patients, improving immune function and overall health.
Indications
- HIV infection
- AIDS-related complex
- Prevention of HIV transmission (post-exposure prophylaxis)
- HIV-related opportunistic infections management
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to specific dosing guidelines in the BNF.
Mechanism of action
Both lamivudine and zidovudine act by competitively inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme. They are phosphorylated within the cell to their active triphosphate forms, which are incorporated into the viral DNA during reverse transcription. This incorporation leads to chain termination, thereby preventing the synthesis of viral DNA and limiting HIV replication.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of lamivudine and zidovudine include a reduction in HIV viral load and an increase in CD4 cell counts. The combination enhances the efficacy of treatment, as it targets the virus at different stages of its life cycle. Resistance may develop, particularly if used as monotherapy, hence the importance of combination therapy.
Pharmacokinetics
Lamivudine has a bioavailability of approximately 80-85% and is primarily eliminated via renal excretion. Its half-life is about 5-7 hours. Zidovudine has a bioavailability of 60-70%, with its elimination primarily through hepatic metabolism and renal excretion. The half-life of zidovudine is around 1 hour. Both drugs require dose adjustments in patients with renal impairment due to their excretion pathways.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to lamivudine, zidovudine, or any excipients
- Severe liver dysfunction
- Concurrent use with certain antiretroviral agents that may interact adversely
Adverse effects
- Anemia
- Neutropenia
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Rash
- Lactic acidosis
- Hepatomegaly
- Myopathy
- Pancreatitis
Interactions
- Bone marrow suppressive agents may increase the risk of hematological toxicity
- Rifampicin can reduce plasma levels of zidovudine
- Methadone may increase zidovudine levels
- Co-administration with didanosine may increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy
Precautions
- Monitor complete blood counts regularly due to risk of bone marrow suppression
- Caution in patients with a history of liver disease
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Patients should be monitored for signs of lactic acidosis
Pregnancy
Lamivudine and zidovudine are considered safe during pregnancy and are often used to reduce the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child.
Breast-feeding
Lamivudine and zidovudine are excreted in breast milk. The decision to breastfeed should consider the benefits of breastfeeding and the risk of HIV transmission.
Storage
Store at room temperature, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Oral solution
- Combined formulation tablets (lamivudine/zidovudine)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.