Full formMedical & Health
AZTstands forAzidothymidine
Full Form of AZT
What is AZT?
AZT, or Azidothymidine (also known as Zidovudine), is a nucleoside analog reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) used as a cornerstone of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV/AIDS. It was the first drug approved by the FDA for treating HIV in 1987 and has since been a key component in managing the infection globally, including in India. In the Indian context, AZT is prescribed under government ART programmes and is available through public health facilities at subsidised rates. It is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to suppress viral load and prevent disease progression. AZT is known for its efficacy in reducing mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth, which is a critical application in India’s high-burden states. Despite newer alternatives with fewer side effects, AZT remains relevant due to its low cost and wide availability in generic form. However, it can cause bone marrow suppression and anaemia, requiring regular monitoring. Its role in India’s National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) is significant, especially for patients who cannot tolerate other first-line regimens. For students of medicine and pharmacy, AZT is a classic example of the first generation of antiretroviral drugs, often appearing in pharmacology and infectious disease examinations in Indian medical colleges.
AZT का फुल फॉर्म
एज़िडोथाइमिडीन
Example
The doctor prescribed AZT along with lamivudine and nevirapine as part of the standard first-line ART regimen for HIV-positive patients in the government clinic.
AZT — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of AZT?
The full form of AZT is Azidothymidine, also known as Zidovudine. It is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Is AZT still used in India for HIV treatment?
Yes, AZT is still used in India as part of first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) under the National AIDS Control Programme, especially in cases where other regimens are not suitable.
What are the common side effects of AZT?
Common side effects of AZT include anaemia, neutropenia (low white blood cells), nausea, headache, and fatigue. Regular blood monitoring is required to manage these risks.