RETROVIR zidovudine 10 mg/mL Solution, 240 mL — NDC 49702-212-48 (Billing 49702-0212-48)
This is a package of 240 mL of RETROVIR zidovudine 10 mg/mL Solution from ViiV Healthcare Company, marketed since Oct 2010 and currently FDA-listed. It is this product's only package size.
NDC database record
One package, one record: these facts belong to NDC 49702-212-48 alone.
- Record
- FDA NDC Directory package listing · Human prescription drug
- Code segments
- 49702 labeler · 212 product · 48 package
- Package marketed since
- Oct 28, 2010
- Sample package
- No — commercial package
- Listing certified through
- Dec 31, 2027
- Billing quantity
- 240 mL per package
- Barcode (UPC-A, from the NDC)
- 3 4970221248 0
- Medicaid fills, this package
- 31 prescriptions in the last four reported quarters
- FDA record last changed
- Oct 8, 2026
Identity & classification
Regulatory identifiers FDA, NLM and CMS codes for this package
Drug-database identifiers Medi-Span GPI and First Databank GCN / HICL / AHFS classification
- GSN (GCN sequence number): 013023
- GCN: 44410
- HICL (First Databank): 004185
- AHFS class code: 08:18.08.20
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 8, 2026
- RxNorm (NLM RxNav) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- Medi-Span GPI (licensed)
- First Databank (licensed) · refreshed Oct 8, 2026
Clinical
Zidovudine is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Zidovudine is given to HIV-positive pregnant women to reduce the chance of passing the infection to the baby. Zidovudine is in a class of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It works by decreasing the amount of HIV in the blood. Although zidovudine does not cure HIV, it may decrease your chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses. Taking these medications along and making other life-style changes may decrease the risk of giving the HIV viru...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Zidovudine Injection (Retrovir) is used with other HIV medicines to treat HIV-1 infection. It is also used to help prevent HIV passing from a mother to her baby. Your care team wil...
- It is given through a vein as a slow infusion, usually over about an hour. It is not given into a muscle and should not be rushed. It is used only until you can take an oral form.
- Headache, feeling unwell, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting are the most common in adults. Tell your care team if they bother you. Call right away for severe tiredness, palenes...
- Zidovudine can lower your red and white blood cells. Regular blood counts help catch this early, and your doctor may pause treatment if needed.
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Zidovudine — tap one for details:
Zidovudine may be associated with lower levels of 6 nutrients — worth a chat with your pharmacist, not a cause for alarm.
Where does this data come from?
- MedlinePlus (NLM) · refreshed Oct 8, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 8, 2026
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per mL | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs. | |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $0.2983 | $71.59 / 240 ml |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $0.2913 | $69.91 / 240 ml |
Where does this data come from?
- CMS NADAC weekly file
- CMS ASP pricing files · refreshed Sep 20, 2026
- CMS Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data · through Q1 2026
- CMS Part D plan pricing files · refreshed Sep 24, 2026
- VA National Acquisition Center price file
Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Marketing end | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49702-0212-48 You're viewing this Main listing | 240 mL in 1 BOTTLE | 2010-10-28 | — | Active |
Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zidovudine 10 mg/mL 65862-0048-24 | Aurobindo | 240 ml | $0.150 | AA | Availability likely | — |
| Retrovir 10 mg/mLthis 49702-0212-48 | ViiV | 240 ml | — | AA | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
- CMS NADAC weekly file
Availability & generic status
FDA-approved generic versions are listed, and recent pricing/market data suggests they may be available — see Therapeutic equivalents.
Where does this data come from?
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
What it looks like
Where does this data come from?
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 8, 2026
Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
🧪 Avoiding an ingredient? See Zidovudine Injection inactive ingredients by manufacturer: every current product's list side by side, so you can ask your pharmacy for the version that does not list it.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
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UNII 2968PHW8QP
A weak organic acid derived from citrus fruits or made through fermentation. It works as a buffer to control pH, a preservative to extend shelf life, and a flavoring agent in medications.
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UNII PDC6A3C0OX
Glycerin is a clear, thick liquid derived from plant oils or fats. It acts as a humectant to retain moisture, a sweetener, and a solvent in medications.
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UNII OJ245FE5EU
Sodium benzoate is a salt derived from benzoic acid, a preservative. It's added to medicines to prevent growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that could spoil the product.
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UNII 55X04QC32I
A strong alkaline chemical used to adjust and maintain the pH balance of liquid medicines. It helps keep the medicine stable and ensures it stays effective during storage.
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UNII C151H8M554
A natural sugar derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. It's used as a sweetener, filler, and binder to improve taste, add bulk, and help hold tablet or capsule ingredients together.
5 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
Where does this data come from?
ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 8, 2026
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Manufacturer & labeler
More NDCs from ViiV Healthcare Company labeler code 49702
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- Epivir lamivudine 300 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 49702-204-13
- EPIVIR lamivudine 10 mg/mL Solution NDC 49702-205-48
- Retrovir zidovudine 100 mg Capsule NDC 49702-211-20
- RETROVIR zidovudine 10 mg/mL Injection, Solution NDC 49702-213-26
- ZIAGEN abacavir sulfate 20 mg/mL Solution NDC 49702-222-48
- Selzentry maraviroc 150 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 49702-223-18
- Selzentry maraviroc 300 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 49702-224-18
- Tivicay dolutegravir sodium 10 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 49702-226-13
- Tivicay dolutegravir sodium 25 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 49702-227-13
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 8, 2026
- Drugs@FDA
Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: RISK OF HEMATOLOGICAL TOXICITY, MYOPATHY, LACTIC ACIDOSIS AND SEVERE HEPATOMEGALY WITH STEATOSIS RETROVIR (zidovudine) capsules, oral solution, and injection have been associated with hematologic toxicity including neutropenia and severe anemia, particularly in patients with advanced HIV-1 disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Prolonged use of RETROVIR has been associated with symptomatic myopathy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 2)] .
Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues alone or in combination, including RETROVIR and other antiretrovirals. Suspend treatment if clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity occur [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 3)] .
WARNING: RISK OF HEMATOLOGICAL TOXICITY, MYOPATHY, LACTIC ACIDOSIS AND SEVERE HEPATOMEGALY WITH STEATOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Hematologic toxicity including neutropenia and severe anemia have been associated with the use of zidovudine. ( 5.1 ) • Symptomatic myopathy associated with prolonged use of zidovudine. ( 5.2 ) • Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues including RETROVIR.
Suspend treatment if clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity occur. ( 5.3 )
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE RETROVIR is a nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor indicated for: • Treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents. ( 1.1 ) • Prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission. ( 1.2 )
1.1Treatment of HIV-1 RETROVIR, a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
1.2Prevention of Maternal-Fetal HIV-1 Transmission RETROVIR is indicated for the prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )]. The indication is based on a dosing regimen that included 3 components: 1. antepartum therapy of HIV‑1–infected mothers 2. intrapartum therapy of HIV‑1–infected mothers 3. post-partum therapy of HIV‑1–exposed neonate Points to consider prior to initiating RETROVIR in pregnant women for the prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission include: • In most cases, RETROVIR for prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission should be given in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. • Prevention of HIV-1 transmission in women who have received RETROVIR for a prolonged period before pregnancy has not been evaluated. • Because the fetus is most susceptible to the potential teratogenic effects of drugs during the first 10 weeks of gestation and the risks of therapy with RETROVIR during that period are not fully known, women in the first trimester of pregnancy who do not require immediate initiation of antiretroviral therapy for their own health may consider delaying use; this indication is based on use after 14 weeks’ gestation.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Treatment of HIV-1 infection: Adults: Recommended oral dosage is 300 mg twice a day with other antiretroviral agents. For patients who are unable to take the oral formulations, the recommended intravenous dose is 1 mg per kg infused over 1 hour every 4 hours. ( 2.1 ) Pediatric patients (aged 4 weeks to less than 18 years): Dosage should be calculated based on body weight not to exceed adult dose.
( 2.2 ) • Prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission: Specific dosage instructions for mother and infant. ( 2.3 ) • Patients with severe anemia and/or neutropenia: Dosage interruption may be necessary. ( 2.4 ) • Renal impairment: Recommended oral dosage in hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis or in patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) less than 15 mL per minute is 100 mg every 6 to 8 hours.
Equivalent intravenous dosing is approximately 1 mg per kg every 6 to 8 hours. ( 2.5 )
2.1Adults – Treatment of HIV-1 Infection Oral Dosing The recommended oral dose of RETROVIR is 300 mg twice daily in combination with other antiretroviral agents. Intravenous (IV) Dosing The recommended intravenous dose is 1 mg per kg infused at a constant rate over 1 hour every 4 hours. Patients should receive RETROVIR injection only until oral therapy can be administered. • RETROVIR injection must be diluted prior to administration.
The calculated dose should be removed from the 20-mL vial and added to 5% Dextrose injection solution to achieve a concentration no greater than 4 mg per mL. • After dilution, the solution is physically and chemically stable for 24 hours at room temperature and 48 hours if refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). As an additional precaution, the diluted solution should be administered within 8 hours if stored at 25°C (77°F) or 24 hours if refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C to minimize potential administration of a microbially contaminated solution. • Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit and discarded if either is observed. • Rapid infusion or bolus injection should be avoided.
RETROVIR injection should not be given intramuscularly.
2.2Pediatric Patients (Aged 4 Weeks to Less than 18 Years) Healthcare professionals should pay special attention to accurate calculation of the dose of RETROVIR, transcription of the medication order, dispensing information, and dosing instructions to minimize risk for medication dosing errors. Prescribers should calculate the appropriate dose of RETROVIR for each child based on body weight (kg) and should not exceed the recommended adult dose. Before prescribing RETROVIR capsules, children should be assessed for the ability to swallow capsules.
If a child is unable to reliably swallow a RETROVIR capsule, the RETROVIR oral solution formulation should be prescribed. The recommended oral dosage in pediatric patients aged 4 weeks to less than 18 years and weighing greater than or equal to 4 kg is provided in Table 1 . RETROVIR oral solution should be used to provide accurate dosage when capsules are not appropriate.
Table 1. Recommended Pediatric Oral Dosage of RETROVIR Body Weight (kg) Total Daily Dose Dosage Regimen and Dose Twice Daily Three Times Daily 4 to <9 24 mg/kg/day 12 mg/kg 8 mg/kg ≥9 to <30 18 mg/kg/day 9 mg/kg 6 mg/kg ≥30 600 mg/day 300 mg 200 mg Alternatively, dosing for RETROVIR can be based on body surface area (BSA) for each child. The recommended oral dose of RETROVIR is 480 mg per m 2 per day in divided doses (240 mg per m 2 twice daily or 160 mg per m 2 three times daily).
In some cases the dose calculated by mg per kg will not be the same as that calculated by BSA.
2.3Prevention of Maternal-Fetal HIV-1 Transmission The recommended dosage regimen for administration to pregnant women (greater than 14 weeks of pregnancy) and their neonates is: Maternal Dosing 100 mg orally 5 times per day until the start of labor [see Clinical Studies (… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS • RETROVIR capsules 100 mg (white, opaque cap and body) containing 100 mg zidovudine and printed with “Wellcome” and unicorn logo on cap and “Y9C” and “100” on body. • RETROVIR oral solution (colorless to pale yellow, strawberry‑flavored) containing 10 mg zidovudine in each mL. • RETROVIR injection is a clear, nearly colorless, sterile aqueous solution with a pH of approximately 5.5. Each vial contains 200 mg of zidovudine in 20 mL solution (10 mg per mL). • Capsules: 100 mg ( 3 ) • Oral Solution: 10 mg per mL ( 3 ) • Injection: (10 mg per mL) 20-mL single-use vial ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS RETROVIR is contraindicated in patients who have had a potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to any of the components of the formulations. Hypersensitivity to zidovudine or any of the components (e.g., anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome). ( 4 )
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • See boxed warning for information about the following: hematologic toxicity, myopathy, and lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly. ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 ) • Exacerbation of anemia has been reported in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients receiving ribavirin and zidovudine. Coadministration of ribavirin and zidovudine is not advised.
( 5.4 ) • Hepatic decompensation (some fatal) has occurred in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy and interferon alfa with/without ribavirin. Discontinue RETROVIR as medically appropriate and consider dose reduction or discontinuation of interferon alfa, ribavirin, or both. ( 5.4 ) • Immune reconstitution syndrome ( 5.5 ) and lipoatrophy ( 5.6 ) have been reported in patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy.
5.1Hematologic Toxicity/Bone Marrow Suppression RETROVIR should be used with caution in patients who have bone marrow compromise evidenced by granulocyte count less than 1,000 cells per mm 3 or hemoglobin less than 9.5 g per dL. Hematologic toxicities appear to be related to pretreatment bone marrow reserve and to dose and duration of therapy. In patients with advanced symptomatic HIV-1 disease, anemia and neutropenia were the most significant adverse events observed.
In patients who experience hematologic toxicity, a reduction in hemoglobin may occur as early as 2 to 4 weeks, and neutropenia usually occurs after 6 to 8 weeks. There have been reports of pancytopenia associated with the use of RETROVIR, which was reversible in most instances after discontinuance of the drug. However, significant anemia, in many cases requiring dose adjustment, discontinuation of RETROVIR, and/or blood transfusions, has occurred during treatment with RETROVIR alone or in combination with other antiretrovirals.
Frequent blood counts are strongly recommended to detect severe anemia or neutropenia in patients with poor bone marrow reserve, particularly in patients with advanced HIV-1 disease who are treated with RETROVIR. For HIV-1-infected individuals and patients with asymptomatic or early HIV-1 disease, periodic blood counts are recommended. If anemia or neutropenia develops, dosage interruption may be needed [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] .
5.2Myopathy Myopathy and myositis with pathological changes, similar to that produced by HIV-1 disease, have been associated with prolonged use of RETROVIR.
5.3Lactic Acidosis and Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogues, including zidovudine. A majority of these cases have been in women. Female sex and obesity may be risk factors for the development of lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis in patients treated with antiretroviral nucleoside analogues.
Treatment with RETROVIR should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity, which may include hepatomegaly and steatosis even in the absence of marked transaminase elevations.
5.4Use with Interferon- and Ribavirin-Based Regimens in HIV-1/HCV Co-infected Patients In vitro studies have shown ribavirin can reduce the phosphorylation of pyrimidine nucleoside analogues such as zidovudine. Although no evidence of a pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interaction (e.g., loss of HIV-1/HCV virologic suppression) was seen when ribavirin was coadministered with zidovudine in HIV-1/HCV co-infected subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] , exacerbation of anemia due to ribavirin has been reported when zidovudine is part of the HIV regimen.
Coadministration of ribavirin and zidovudine is not advised. Consideration should be given to replacing zidovudine in established combination HIV-1/HCV therapy, especially in patients with a known history of zidovudine-induced anemia. Hepatic decompensation (some fatal) has occurred i… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: • Hematologic toxicity, including neutropenia and anemia [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. • Symptomatic myopathy [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 2)]. • Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 3)]. • Hepatic decompensation in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and hepatitis C [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.
4)]. • Most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 15%) in adult HIV-1 clinical trials were headache, malaise, nausea, anorexia, and vomiting. ( 6.1 ) • Most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 15%) in pediatric HIV-1 clinical trials were fever and cough. ( 6.1 ) • Most commonly reported adverse reactions in neonates (incidence greater than or equal to 15%) in the prevention of maternal-fetal transmission of HIV-1 clinical trial were anemia and neutropenia.
( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ViiV Healthcare at 1-877-844-8872 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adults The frequency and severity of adverse reactions associated with the use of RETROVIR are greater in patients with more advanced infection at the time of initiation of therapy. Table 3 summarizes adverse reactions reported at a statistically significant greater incidence for subjects receiving oral RETROVIR in a monotherapy trial.
Table 3. Percentage (%) of Subjects with Adverse Reactions (Greater than or Equal to 5% Frequency) in Asymptomatic HIV-1 Infection (ACTG 019) a Not statistically significant versus placebo. Adverse Reaction RETROVIR 500 mg/day (n = 453) Placebo (n = 428) Body as a whole Asthenia 9% a 6% Headache 63% 53% Malaise 53% 45% Gastrointestinal Anorexia 20% 11% Constipation 6% a 4% Nausea 51% 30% Vomiting 17% 10% In addition to the adverse reactions listed in Table 3 , adverse reactions observed at an incidence of greater than or equal to 5% in any treatment arm in clinical trials (NUCA3001, NUCA3002, NUCB3001, and NUCB3002) were abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, arthralgia, chills, dyspepsia, fatigue, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, and neuropathy.
Additionally, in these trials hyperbilirubinemia was reported at an incidence of less than or equal to 0.8%. Selected laboratory abnormalities observed during a clinical trial of monotherapy with oral RETROVIR are shown in Table 4 . Table 4.
Frequencies of Selected (Grade 3/4) Laboratory Abnormalities in Subjects with Asymptomatic HIV-1 Infection (ACTG 019) ULN = Upper limit of normal. Test (Abnormal Level) RETROVIR 500 mg/day (n = 453) Placebo (n = 428) Anemia (Hgb <8 g/dL) 1% <1% Granulocytopenia (<750 cells/mm 3 ) 2% 2% Thrombocytopenia (platelets <50,000/mm 3 ) 0% <1% ALT (>5 x ULN) 3% 3% AST (>5 x ULN) 1% 2% The adverse reactions reported during IV administration of RETROVIR injection are similar to those reported with oral administration; neutropenia and anemia were reported most frequently.
Long-term IV administration beyond 2 to 4 weeks has not been studied in adults and may enhance hematologic adverse reactions. Local reaction, pain, and slight irritation during IV administration occur infrequently. Pediatrics The clinical adverse reactions reported among adult recipients of RETROVIR may also occur in pediatric patients.
Trial ACTG 300: Selected clinical adverse reactions and physical findings with a greater than or equal to 5% frequency during therapy with EPIVIR (lamivudine) oral suspension 4 mg per kg twice daily plus RETROVIR 160 mg per m 2 3 times daily compared… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Avoid use with stavudine. ( 7.1 ) • Avoid use with doxorubicin. ( 7.2 ) • Bone marrow suppressive/cytotoxic agents: May increase the hematologic toxicity of zidovudine. ( 7.3 )
7.1Antiretroviral Agents Stavudine Concomitant use of zidovudine with stavudine should be avoided since an antagonistic relationship has been demonstrated in vitro. Nucleoside Analogues Affecting DNA Replication Some nucleoside analogues affecting DNA replication, such as ribavirin, antagonize the in vitro antiviral activity of RETROVIR against HIV-1; concomitant use of such drugs should be avoided.
7.2Doxorubicin Concomitant use of zidovudine with doxorubicin should be avoided since an antagonistic relationship has been demonstrated in vitro.
7.3Hematologic/Bone Marrow Suppressive/Cytotoxic Agents Coadministration of ganciclovir, interferon alfa, ribavirin, and other bone marrow suppressive or cytotoxic agents may increase the hematologic toxicity of zidovudine.
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Lactation: Women infected with HIV should be instructed not to breastfeed due to potential for HIV transmission. ( 8.2 )
8.1Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to RETROVIR during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263. Risk Summary Available data from the APR show no difference in the overall risk of birth defects for zidovudine compared with the background rate for birth defects of 2.7% in the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) reference population (see Data) .
The APR uses the MACDP as the U.S. reference population for birth defects in the general population. The MACDP evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at less than 20 weeks’ gestation. The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR.
The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15% to 20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Hyperlactatemia, which may be due to mitochondrial dysfunction, has been reported in infants with in utero exposure to zidovudine-containing products.
These events were transient and asymptomatic in most cases. There have been few reports of developmental delay, seizures, and other neurological disease. However, a causal relationship between these events and exposure to zidovudine-containing products in utero or peri-partum has not been established ( see Data) .
In an animal reproduction study, administration of oral zidovudine to female rats prior to mating and throughout gestation resulted in embryotoxicity at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 33 times higher than exposure at the recommended clinical dose. However, no embryotoxicity was observed after oral administration of zidovudine to pregnant rats during organogenesis at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 117 times higher than exposures at the recommended clinical dose. Administration of oral zidovudine to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis resulted in embryotoxicity at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 108 times higher than exposure at the recommended clinical dose.
However, no embryotoxicity was observed at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 23 times higher than exposures at the recommended clinical dose (see Data) . Data Human Data: Based on prospective reports to the APR of over 13,000 exposures to zidovudine during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 4,000 exposed in the first trimester), there was no difference between the overall risk of birth defects for zidovudine compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in a U.S. reference population of the MACDP.
The prevalence of birth defects in live births was 3.2% (95% CI: 2.7% to 3.8%) following first trimester exposure to zidovudine-containing regimens and 2.8% (95% CI: 2.5% to 3.2%) following second/third trimester exposure to zidovudine-containing regimens. A randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial was conducted in HIV‑1–infected pregnant women to determine the utility of RETROVIR for the prevention of maternal‑fetal HIV‑1‑transmission [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Zidovudine treatment during pregnancy reduced the rate of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission from 24.9% for infants born to placebo-treated mothers to 7.8% for infants born to mothers treated with zidovudine.
There were no differences in pregnancy-related adverse events between the treatment groups. Of the 363 neonates that were evaluated, congenital abnormalities occurred with similar frequency between neonates born to mothers who received RETROVIR and neonates born to mothers who received… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤰 Pregnancy ▾
8.1Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to RETROVIR during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263. Risk Summary Available data from the APR show no difference in the overall risk of birth defects for zidovudine compared with the background rate for birth defects of 2.7% in the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) reference population (see Data) .
The APR uses the MACDP as the U.S. reference population for birth defects in the general population. The MACDP evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at less than 20 weeks’ gestation. The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR.
The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15% to 20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Hyperlactatemia, which may be due to mitochondrial dysfunction, has been reported in infants with in utero exposure to zidovudine-containing products.
These events were transient and asymptomatic in most cases. There have been few reports of developmental delay, seizures, and other neurological disease. However, a causal relationship between these events and exposure to zidovudine-containing products in utero or peri-partum has not been established ( see Data) .
In an animal reproduction study, administration of oral zidovudine to female rats prior to mating and throughout gestation resulted in embryotoxicity at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 33 times higher than exposure at the recommended clinical dose. However, no embryotoxicity was observed after oral administration of zidovudine to pregnant rats during organogenesis at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 117 times higher than exposures at the recommended clinical dose. Administration of oral zidovudine to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis resulted in embryotoxicity at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 108 times higher than exposure at the recommended clinical dose.
However, no embryotoxicity was observed at doses that produced systemic exposure (AUC) approximately 23 times higher than exposures at the recommended clinical dose (see Data) . Data Human Data: Based on prospective reports to the APR of over 13,000 exposures to zidovudine during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 4,000 exposed in the first trimester), there was no difference between the overall risk of birth defects for zidovudine compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in a U.S. reference population of the MACDP.
The prevalence of birth defects in live births was 3.2% (95% CI: 2.7% to 3.8%) following first trimester exposure to zidovudine-containing regimens and 2.8% (95% CI: 2.5% to 3.2%) following second/third trimester exposure to zidovudine-containing regimens. A randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial was conducted in HIV‑1–infected pregnant women to determine the utility of RETROVIR for the prevention of maternal‑fetal HIV‑1‑transmission [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Zidovudine treatment during pregnancy reduced the rate of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission from 24.9% for infants born to placebo-treated mothers to 7.8% for infants born to mothers treated with zidovudine.
There were no differences in pregnancy-related adverse events between the treatment groups. Of the 363 neonates that were evaluated, congenital abnormalities occurred with similar frequency between neonates born to mothers who received RETROVIR and neonates born to mothers who received placebo. The observed abnormalities included problems in embryogenesis (prior to 14 weeks) or were recognized on ultrasound before or immediately after i… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
8.4Pediatric Use RETROVIR has been studied in HIV-1-infected pediatric subjects aged at least 6 weeks who had HIV-1-related symptoms or who were asymptomatic with abnormal laboratory values indicating significant HIV-1-related immunosuppression. RETROVIR has also been studied in neonates perinatally exposed to HIV-1 [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), Clinical Studies ( 14.2 , 14.3 )] .
🧓 Geriatric Use ▾
8.5Geriatric Use Clinical studies of RETROVIR did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE Acute overdoses of zidovudine have been reported in pediatric patients and adults. These involved exposures up to 50 grams. No specific symptoms or signs have been identified following acute overdosage with zidovudine apart from those listed as adverse events such as fatigue, headache, vomiting, and occasional reports of hematological disturbances.
Patients recovered without permanent sequelae. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis appear to have a negligible effect on the removal of zidovudine while elimination of its primary metabolite, 3′-azido-3′-deoxy-5′- O -β- D -glucopyranuronosylthymidine (GZDV), is enhanced. If overdose occurs, the patient should be monitored for evidence of toxicity and given standard supportive treatment as required.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Zidovudine is an antiretroviral agent [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] .
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption and Bioavailability Following IV dosing, dose‑independent kinetics was observed over the range of 1 to 5 mg per kg. The mean steady‑state peak and trough concentrations of zidovudine at 2.5 mg per kg every 4 hours were 1.1 and 0.1 mcg per mL, respectively. In adults, following oral administration, zidovudine is rapidly absorbed and extensively distributed, with peak serum concentrations occurring within 0.5 to 1.5 hours.
The AUC was equivalent when zidovudine was administered as RETROVIR tablets or oral solution compared with RETROVIR capsules. The pharmacokinetic properties of zidovudine in fasting adult subjects are summarized in Table 7 . Table 7.
Zidovudine Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Adult Subjects a Median [range] for 50 paired samples drawn 1 to 8 hours after the last dose in subjects on chronic therapy with RETROVIR. b Approximate range. Parameter Mean ± SD (except where noted) Oral bioavailability (%) 64 ± 10 (n = 5) Apparent volume of distribution (L/kg) 1.6 ± 0.6 (n = 8) Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF):plasma ratio a 0.6 [0.04 to 2.62] (n = 39) Systemic clearance (L/h/kg) 1.6 ± 0.6 (n = 6) Renal clearance (L/h/kg) 0.34 ± 0.05 (n = 9) Elimination half-life (h) b 0.5 to 3 (n = 19) Distribution The apparent volume of distribution of zidovudine is 1.6 ±
0.6L per kg ( Table 7 ) and binding to plasma protein is low (less than 38%). Metabolism and Elimination Zidovudine is primarily eliminated by hepatic metabolism. The major metabolite of zidovudine is GZDV.
GZDV AUC is about 3-fold greater than the zidovudine AUC. Urinary recovery of zidovudine and GZDV accounts for 14% and 74%, respectively, of the dose following oral administration and 18% and 60%, respectively, following IV dosing. A second metabolite, 3′-amino-3′-deoxythymidine (AMT), has been identified in the plasma following single-dose IV administration of zidovudine.
The AMT AUC was one-fifth of the zidovudine AUC. Pharmacokinetics of zidovudine were dose independent at oral dosing regimens ranging from 2 mg per kg every 8 hours to 10 mg per kg every 4 hours. Effect of Food on Absorption RETROVIR may be administered with or without food.
The zidovudine AUC was similar when a single dose of zidovudine was administered with food. Specific Populations Patients with Renal Impairment: Zidovudine clearance was decreased resulting in increased zidovudine and GZDV half-life and AUC in subjects with impaired renal function (n = 14) following a single 200-mg oral dose ( Table 8 ). Plasma concentrations of AMT were not determined.
No dose adjustment is recommended for patients with CrCl greater than or equal to 15 mL per min. Table 8. Zidovudine Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Subjects with Severe Renal Impairment a a Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Parameter Control Subjects (Normal Renal Function) (n = 6) Subjects with Renal Impairment (n = 14) CrCl (mL/min) 120 ± 8 18 ± 2 Zidovudine AUC (ng•h/mL) 1,400 ± 200 3,100 ± 300 Zidovudine half-life (h) 1.0 ± 0.2 1.4 ±
0.1Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis: The pharmacokinetics and tolerance of zidovudine were evaluated in a multiple-dose trial in subjects undergoing hemodialysis (n = 5) or peritoneal dialysis (n = 6) receiving escalating oral doses up to 200 mg 5 times daily for 8 weeks. Daily doses of 500 mg or less were well tolerated despite significantly elevated GZDV plasma concentrations. Apparent zidovudine oral clearance was approximately 50% of that reported in subjects with normal renal function.
Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis appeared to have a negligible effect on the removal of zidovudine, whereas GZDV elimination was enhanced. A dosage adjustment is recommended for patients undergoing hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . Patients with Hepatic Impairment: Data describing the effect of hepatic impairment on… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
12.1Mechanism of Action Zidovudine is an antiretroviral agent [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] .
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING RETROVIR 100-mg capsules are supplied as white, opaque cap and body capsules containing 100 mg zidovudine per capsule. Each capsule is printed with “Wellcome” and unicorn logo on cap and “Y9C” and “100” on body. Bottles of 100 (NDC 49702-211-20).
Store at 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F) and protect from moisture. RETROVIR oral solution is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow, strawberry-flavored solution containing 10 mg zidovudine in each mL. Bottle of 240 mL (NDC 49702-212-48) with child-resistant cap.
Store at 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F). RETROVIR injection is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow aqueous solution. The strength of the presentation is 200 mg of zidovudine in 20 mL solution (10 mg per mL).
Single-dose vial (NDC 49702-213-01), Carton of 5 (NDC 49702-213-26). Store vials at 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F) and protect from light.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION RETROVIR is the brand name for zidovudine (formerly called azidothymidine [AZT]), a pyrimidine nucleoside analogue active against HIV-1. The chemical name of zidovudine is 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine; it has the following structural formula: Zidovudine is a white to beige, odorless, crystalline solid with a molecular weight of 267.24 and a solubility of 20.1 mg per mL in water at 25°C. The molecular formula is C 10 H 13 N 5 O 4 .
RETROVIR capsules are for oral administration. Each capsule contains 100 mg of zidovudine and the inactive ingredients corn starch, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate. The 100-mg empty hard gelatin capsule, printed with edible black ink, consists of black iron oxide, dimethylpolysiloxane, gelatin, pharmaceutical shellac, soya lecithin, and titanium dioxide.
Each mL of RETROVIR oral solution contains 10 mg of zidovudine and the inactive ingredients sodium benzoate 0.2% (added as a preservative), citric acid, flavors, glycerin, and liquid sucrose. Sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH. RETROVIR injection is a sterile solution for IV infusion only.
Each mL contains 10 mg zidovudine in water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may have been added to adjust the pH to approximately 5.5. RETROVIR injection contains no preservatives. zidovudine structural formula
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Hypersensitivity Reactions Inform patients that potentially life‑threatening hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome) can occur while receiving RETROVIR. Instruct patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider if they develop rash, as it may be a sign of a more serious reaction. Advise patients that it is very important that they remain under a healthcare provider’s care during treatment with RETROVIR [see Contraindications ( 4 )] .
Neutropenia and Anemia Inform patients that the major toxicities of RETROVIR are neutropenia and/or anemia. The frequency and severity of these toxicities are greater in patients with more advanced disease and in those who initiate therapy later in the course of their infection. Advise patients that if toxicity develops, they may require transfusions or drug discontinuation.
Advise patients of the extreme importance of having their blood counts followed closely while on therapy, especially for patients with advanced symptomatic HIV-1 disease [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Myopathy Inform patients that myopathy and myositis with pathological changes, similar to that produced by HIV-1 disease, have been associated with prolonged use of RETROVIR [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 2)] .
Lactic Acidosis/Hepatomegaly with Steatosis Advise patients that lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis have been reported with use of nucleoside analogues and other antiretrovirals. Advise patients to stop taking RETROVIR if they develop clinical symptoms suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 3)] .
HIV-1/HCV Co-infection Inform patients with HIV-1/HCV co-infection that hepatic decompensation (some fatal) has occurred in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 and interferon alfa with or without ribavirin [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 4)] . Immune Reconstitution Syndrome Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider immediately of any signs and symptoms of infection as inflammation from previous infection may occur soon after combination antiretroviral therapy, including when RETROVIR is started [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.
5)] . Lipoatrophy Advise patients that loss of subcutaneous fat may occur in patients receiving RETROVIR and that they will be regularly assessed during therapy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5. 6)] .
Common Adverse Reactions Inform patients that the most commonly reported adverse reactions in adult patients being treated with RETROVIR were headache, malaise, nausea, anorexia, and vomiting. The most commonly reported adverse reactions in pediatric patients receiving RETROVIR were fever, cough, and digestive disorders. Patients also should be encouraged to contact their physician if they experience muscle weakness, shortness of breath, symptoms of hepatitis or pancreatitis, or any other unexpected adverse events while being treated with RETROVIR [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 )] .
Drug Interactions Advise patients that other medications may interact with RETROVIR and certain medications, including ganciclovir, interferon alfa, and ribavirin, may exacerbate the toxicity of RETROVIR [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . Dosage and Administration in Neonates Due to the small volume of RETROVIR administered to neonates, advise caregivers to use an appropriate-sized syringe with 0.1-mL graduation to ensure accurate dosing of the oral solution formulation [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . Pregnancy Inform pregnant women considering the use of RETROVIR during pregnancy for prevention of HIV-1 transmission to their infants that transmission may still occur in some cases despite therapy.
Pregnancy Registry Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to RETROVIR during pregnancy [se… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧬 Pharmacokinetics ▾
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption and Bioavailability Following IV dosing, dose‑independent kinetics was observed over the range of 1 to 5 mg per kg. The mean steady‑state peak and trough concentrations of zidovudine at 2.5 mg per kg every 4 hours were 1.1 and 0.1 mcg per mL, respectively. In adults, following oral administration, zidovudine is rapidly absorbed and extensively distributed, with peak serum concentrations occurring within 0.5 to 1.5 hours.
The AUC was equivalent when zidovudine was administered as RETROVIR tablets or oral solution compared with RETROVIR capsules. The pharmacokinetic properties of zidovudine in fasting adult subjects are summarized in Table 7 . Table 7.
Zidovudine Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Adult Subjects a Median [range] for 50 paired samples drawn 1 to 8 hours after the last dose in subjects on chronic therapy with RETROVIR. b Approximate range. Parameter Mean ± SD (except where noted) Oral bioavailability (%) 64 ± 10 (n = 5) Apparent volume of distribution (L/kg) 1.6 ± 0.6 (n = 8) Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF):plasma ratio a 0.6 [0.04 to 2.62] (n = 39) Systemic clearance (L/h/kg) 1.6 ± 0.6 (n = 6) Renal clearance (L/h/kg) 0.34 ± 0.05 (n = 9) Elimination half-life (h) b 0.5 to 3 (n = 19) Distribution The apparent volume of distribution of zidovudine is 1.6 ±
0.6L per kg ( Table 7 ) and binding to plasma protein is low (less than 38%). Metabolism and Elimination Zidovudine is primarily eliminated by hepatic metabolism. The major metabolite of zidovudine is GZDV.
GZDV AUC is about 3-fold greater than the zidovudine AUC. Urinary recovery of zidovudine and GZDV accounts for 14% and 74%, respectively, of the dose following oral administration and 18% and 60%, respectively, following IV dosing. A second metabolite, 3′-amino-3′-deoxythymidine (AMT), has been identified in the plasma following single-dose IV administration of zidovudine.
The AMT AUC was one-fifth of the zidovudine AUC. Pharmacokinetics of zidovudine were dose independent at oral dosing regimens ranging from 2 mg per kg every 8 hours to 10 mg per kg every 4 hours. Effect of Food on Absorption RETROVIR may be administered with or without food.
The zidovudine AUC was similar when a single dose of zidovudine was administered with food. Specific Populations Patients with Renal Impairment: Zidovudine clearance was decreased resulting in increased zidovudine and GZDV half-life and AUC in subjects with impaired renal function (n = 14) following a single 200-mg oral dose ( Table 8 ). Plasma concentrations of AMT were not determined.
No dose adjustment is recommended for patients with CrCl greater than or equal to 15 mL per min. Table 8. Zidovudine Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Subjects with Severe Renal Impairment a a Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Parameter Control Subjects (Normal Renal Function) (n = 6) Subjects with Renal Impairment (n = 14) CrCl (mL/min) 120 ± 8 18 ± 2 Zidovudine AUC (ng•h/mL) 1,400 ± 200 3,100 ± 300 Zidovudine half-life (h) 1.0 ± 0.2 1.4 ±
0.1Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis: The pharmacokinetics and tolerance of zidovudine were evaluated in a multiple-dose trial in subjects undergoing hemodialysis (n = 5) or peritoneal dialysis (n = 6) receiving escalating oral doses up to 200 mg 5 times daily for 8 weeks. Daily doses of 500 mg or less were well tolerated despite significantly elevated GZDV plasma concentrations. Apparent zidovudine oral clearance was approximately 50% of that reported in subjects with normal renal function.
Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis appeared to have a negligible effect on the removal of zidovudine, whereas GZDV elimination was enhanced. A dosage adjustment is recommended for patients undergoing hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . Patients with Hepatic Impairment: Data describing the effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of zidovudine are limited.
However, zidovudine is eliminated primarily by hepatic metabolism and… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔬 Clinical Studies ▾
14 CLINICAL STUDIES Therapy with RETROVIR has been shown to prolong survival and decrease the incidence of opportunistic infections in patients with advanced HIV-1 disease and to delay disease progression in asymptomatic HIV-1-infected patients.
14.1Adults Combination Therapy RETROVIR in combination with other antiretroviral agents has been shown to be superior to monotherapy for one or more of the following endpoints: delaying death, delaying development of AIDS, increasing CD4+ cell counts, and decreasing plasma HIV-1 RNA. The clinical efficacy of a combination regimen that includes RETROVIR was demonstrated in trial ACTG 320. This trial was a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that compared RETROVIR 600 mg per day plus EPIVIR 300 mg per day with RETROVIR plus EPIVIR plus indinavir 800 mg three times daily.
The incidence of AIDS-defining events or death was lower in the triple-drug–containing arm compared with the 2-drug–containing arm (6.1% versus 10.9%, respectively). Monotherapy In controlled trials of treatment-naive subjects conducted between 1986 and 1989, monotherapy with RETROVIR, as compared with placebo, reduced the risk of HIV-1 disease progression, as assessed using endpoints that included the occurrence of HIV-1-related illnesses, AIDS-defining events, or death. These trials enrolled subjects with advanced disease (BW 002), and asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic disease in subjects with CD4+ cell counts between 200 and 500 cells per mm 3 (ACTG 016 and ACTG 019).
A survival benefit for monotherapy with RETROVIR was not demonstrated in the latter 2 trials. Subsequent trials showed that the clinical benefit of monotherapy with RETROVIR was time limited.
14.2Pediatric Patients ACTG 300 was a multi-center, randomized, double-blind trial that provided for comparison of EPIVIR plus RETROVIR to didanosine monotherapy. A total of 471 symptomatic, HIV-1-infected therapy-naive pediatric subjects were enrolled in these 2 treatment arms. The median age was 2.7 years (range: 6 weeks to 14 years), the mean baseline CD4+ cell count was 868 cells per mm 3 , and the mean baseline plasma HIV-1 RNA was 5.0 log 10 copies per mL.
The median duration that subjects remained on trial was approximately 10 months. Results are summarized in Table 11 . Table 11.
Number of Subjects (%) Reaching a Primary Clinical Endpoint (Disease Progression or Death) Endpoint EPIVIR plus RETROVIR (n = 236) Didanosine (n = 235) HIV disease progression or death (total) 15 (6.4%) 37 (15.7%) Physical growth failure 7 (3.0%) 6 (2.6%) Central nervous system deterioration 4 (1.7%) 12 (5.1%) CDC Clinical Category C 2 (0.8%) 8 (3.4%) Death 2 (0.8%) 11 (4.7%)
14.3Prevention of Maternal-Fetal HIV-1 Transmission The utility of RETROVIR for the prevention of maternal-fetal HIV-1 transmission was demonstrated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (ACTG 076) conducted in HIV-1-infected pregnant women with CD4+ cell counts of 200 to 1,818 cells per mm 3 (median in the treated group: 560 cells per mm 3 ) who had little or no previous exposure to RETROVIR. Oral RETROVIR was initiated between 14 and 34 weeks of gestation (median 11 weeks of therapy) followed by IV administration of RETROVIR during labor and delivery.
Following birth, neonates received RETROVIR oral solution for 6 weeks. The trial showed a statistically significant difference in the incidence of HIV-1 infection in the neonates (based on viral culture from peripheral blood) between the group receiving RETROVIR and the group receiving placebo. Of 363 neonates evaluated in the trial, the estimated risk of HIV-1 infection was 7.8% in the group receiving RETROVIR and 24.9% in the placebo group, a relative reduction in transmission risk of 68.7%.
RETROVIR was well tolerated by mothers and infants. There was no difference in pregnancy-related adverse events between the treatment groups.
🧪 Nonclinical Toxicology ▾
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis Zidovudine was administered orally at 3 dosage levels to separate groups of mice and rats (60 females and 60 males in each group). Initial single daily doses were 30, 60, and 120 mg per kg per day in mice and 80, 220, and 600 mg per kg per day in rats. The doses in mice were reduced to 20, 30, and 40 mg per kg per day after Day 90 because of treatment-related anemia, whereas in rats only the high dose was reduced to 450 mg per kg per day on Day 91 and then to 300 mg per kg per day on Day 279.
In mice, 7 late-appearing (after 19 months) vaginal neoplasms (5 non-metastasizing squamous cell carcinomas, 1 squamous cell papilloma, and 1 squamous polyp) occurred in animals given the highest dose. One late-appearing squamous cell papilloma occurred in the vagina of a middle-dose animal. No vaginal tumors were found at the lowest dose.
In rats, 2 late-appearing (after 20 months), non-metastasizing vaginal squamous cell carcinomas occurred in animals given the highest dose. No vaginal tumors occurred at the low or middle dose in rats. No other drug-related tumors were observed in either sex of either species.
At doses that produced tumors in mice and rats, the estimated drug exposure (as measured by AUC) was approximately 3 times (mouse) and 24 times (rat) the estimated human exposure at the recommended therapeutic dose of 100 mg every 4 hours. It is not known how predictive the results of rodent carcinogenicity studies may be for humans. Two transplacental carcinogenicity studies were conducted in mice.
One study administered zidovudine at doses of 20 mg per kg per day or 40 mg per kg per day from Gestation Day 10 through parturition and lactation with dosing continuing in offspring for 24 months postnatally. The doses of zidovudine administered in this study produced zidovudine exposures approximately 3 times the estimated human exposure at recommended doses. After 24 months, an increase in incidence of vaginal tumors was noted with no increase in tumors in the liver or lung or any other organ in either gender.
These findings are consistent with results of the standard oral carcinogenicity study in mice, as described earlier. A second study administered zidovudine at maximum tolerated doses of 12.5 mg per day or 25 mg per day (approximately 1,000 mg per kg nonpregnant body weight or approximately 450 mg per kg of term body weight) to pregnant mice from Days 12 through 18 of gestation. There was an increase in the number of tumors in the lung, liver, and female reproductive tracts in the offspring of mice receiving the higher dose level of zidovudine.
Mutagenesis Zidovudine was mutagenic in a 5178Y/TK +/- mouse lymphoma assay, positive in an in vitro cell transformation assay, clastogenic in a cytogenetic assay using cultured human lymphocytes, and positive in mouse and rat micronucleus tests after repeated doses. It was negative in a cytogenetic study in rats given a single dose. Impairment of Fertility Zidovudine, administered to male and female rats at doses up to 450 mg per kg per day, which is 7 times the recommended adult dose (300 mg twice daily) based on body surface area, had no effect on fertility based on conception rates.
📄 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility ▾
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis Zidovudine was administered orally at 3 dosage levels to separate groups of mice and rats (60 females and 60 males in each group). Initial single daily doses were 30, 60, and 120 mg per kg per day in mice and 80, 220, and 600 mg per kg per day in rats. The doses in mice were reduced to 20, 30, and 40 mg per kg per day after Day 90 because of treatment-related anemia, whereas in rats only the high dose was reduced to 450 mg per kg per day on Day 91 and then to 300 mg per kg per day on Day 279.
In mice, 7 late-appearing (after 19 months) vaginal neoplasms (5 non-metastasizing squamous cell carcinomas, 1 squamous cell papilloma, and 1 squamous polyp) occurred in animals given the highest dose. One late-appearing squamous cell papilloma occurred in the vagina of a middle-dose animal. No vaginal tumors were found at the lowest dose.
In rats, 2 late-appearing (after 20 months), non-metastasizing vaginal squamous cell carcinomas occurred in animals given the highest dose. No vaginal tumors occurred at the low or middle dose in rats. No other drug-related tumors were observed in either sex of either species.
At doses that produced tumors in mice and rats, the estimated drug exposure (as measured by AUC) was approximately 3 times (mouse) and 24 times (rat) the estimated human exposure at the recommended therapeutic dose of 100 mg every 4 hours. It is not known how predictive the results of rodent carcinogenicity studies may be for humans. Two transplacental carcinogenicity studies were conducted in mice.
One study administered zidovudine at doses of 20 mg per kg per day or 40 mg per kg per day from Gestation Day 10 through parturition and lactation with dosing continuing in offspring for 24 months postnatally. The doses of zidovudine administered in this study produced zidovudine exposures approximately 3 times the estimated human exposure at recommended doses. After 24 months, an increase in incidence of vaginal tumors was noted with no increase in tumors in the liver or lung or any other organ in either gender.
These findings are consistent with results of the standard oral carcinogenicity study in mice, as described earlier. A second study administered zidovudine at maximum tolerated doses of 12.5 mg per day or 25 mg per day (approximately 1,000 mg per kg nonpregnant body weight or approximately 450 mg per kg of term body weight) to pregnant mice from Days 12 through 18 of gestation. There was an increase in the number of tumors in the lung, liver, and female reproductive tracts in the offspring of mice receiving the higher dose level of zidovudine.
Mutagenesis Zidovudine was mutagenic in a 5178Y/TK +/- mouse lymphoma assay, positive in an in vitro cell transformation assay, clastogenic in a cytogenetic assay using cultured human lymphocytes, and positive in mouse and rat micronucleus tests after repeated doses. It was negative in a cytogenetic study in rats given a single dose. Impairment of Fertility Zidovudine, administered to male and female rats at doses up to 450 mg per kg per day, which is 7 times the recommended adult dose (300 mg twice daily) based on body surface area, had no effect on fertility based on conception rates.
📄 Package Label / Principal Display Panel ▾
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 49702-211-20 RETROVIR (zidovudine) CAPSULES 100 mg 100 mg R x only 100 Capsules Each capsule contains 100 mg of zidovudine. See prescribing information for dosing information. Store at 15 o to 25 o C (59 o to 77 o F) and protect from moisture.
Dispense in a tight container as defined in the USP. Do not accept if safety seal under cap is missing or broken. Manufactured for: ViiV Healthcare Durham, NC 27701 Made in India Trademarks owned or licensed by the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. ©2023 ViiV Healthcare or licensor.
Rev. 07/23 62000000089450 Retrovir capsule 100 mg 100 count label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 49702-212-48 RETROVIR (zidovudine) ORAL SOLUTION 10 mg/mL 240 mL Note to Pharmacist: Please ensure the caregiver has an appropriate syringe with 0.1-mL graduation to accurately measure the oral dose of RETROVIR oral solution in neonates. R x only Manufactured for: ViiV Healthcare Durham, NC 27701 Made in India Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. ©2023 ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its licensor. 30000000001038 Rev.
7/23 Retrovir Oral Solution 240 mL carton
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 49702-213-26 RETROVIR (zidovudine) INJECTION 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) MUST BE DILUTED PRIOR TO INTRAVENOUS INFUSION. Five x 20 mL Single-Dose Vials Discard Unused Portion R x only Sterile Made in India ©2025 ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its licensor. Trademark is owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. 62000000099203 Rev. 03/25 Retrovir IV 20 mL vial 5 count carton
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