AZT or retrovir, or zidovudine Trademark for
azidothymidine, an antiviral drug used in the
treatment of AIDS. Developed in the mid-1980s
and approved for use by 1987, it is not a
cure for AIDS, but is effective in 
suppressing the causative virus (HIV) for as
long as it is being administered.  Taken 
every four hours, night and day, it reduces
the risk of opportunistic infection and 
relieves many neurological complications.
However, frequent blood monitoring is 
required to control anaemia, a potentially
life-threatening side effect of AZT.  
Blood transfusions are often necessary,
and the drug must be withdrawn if bone-marrow
function is severely affected.

Subject by: Russell Webb