Anaemia

Anaemia is a shortage of oxygen-carrying red blood cells. The main symptom is extreme tiredness. AZT can cause anaemia by its effect on bone marrow.

Lower doses of AZT may be just as effective against HIV, but this is not possible when using the current fixed dose combinations.

If you are using AZT and become extremely tired or weak, you need to see your doctor who should perform a blood test or change this treatment.

Lactic acidosis

Lactic acidosis is a term for a dangerous build up of lactate in the blood.

Lactate is a waste product produced when sugar is turned into energy by the body.

The symptoms include feeling sick and/or very tired and muscle weakness.

If you have these symptoms, it is essential to contact your doctor.

The risk of lactic acidosis is much higher when d4T is used with ddI – and these two drugs are not recommended to be used together in most guidelines.

Further reading

Information about lactic acidosis from the i-Base guide to side effects and other complications.