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AIDS, is probably the most feared disease today. It is often considered to be a disease which has no cure. A disease, which leaves you so vulnerable that even an insignificant cold can bring forth the news of death. AIDS has been spreading at an alarming rate across the world. The origin of the disease could not be zeroed upon, though probable sources have been discovered. The virus behind this dreaded disease is known as HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency virus. This virus targets the immune system, causing severe failure of the immune system. This disease is transmitted through body fluids of humans. This disease can also be contracted if the body fluid of an infected individual touches the mucous membrane of a healthy individual. Several years of research has led to the development of certain medicines which can prolong the life of a HIV infected individual. The medicines invented by scientists for treating HIV/AIDS can be segregated into two major categories, namely, Protease inhibitors and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). None of these medicines can be used alone. These medicines need to be used in combination with each other. Usually three drugs are used simultaneously to combat HIV. Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine), is a drug belonging to the category of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI).

Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine), is also referred to as ZDV. The main function of Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine), is to block the protein named reverse transcriptase which helps the HIV to replicate. As Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine) belongs to the category of NRTI, it also stops the HIV from altering the genetic material of the T-lymphocyte. Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine) was approved by the American Food and Drugs Association in 1987, for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. This drug can be used for treating children aged 3 months or above and van certainly be applied on adults. The medicine comes in the form of capsules tablets and syrups which can be admisistered orally. Intravenous solution of Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine) is also available for people who can not take the medicine by mouth. Like most other anti-HIV drus, Retrovir (AZT, Zidovudine) must also be used in combination with two other anti-HIV drugs. For gathering further information on HIV/AIDS Drugs browse through the site.