Zidovudine

Zidovudine (CAS 30516-87-1), also known as AZT and marketed under the brand name Retrovir®, is an antiretroviral nucleoside analogue used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient in HIV treatment formulations.

It functions as a reverse transcriptase inhibitor, blocking viral replication at the enzymatic level and forming the basis of combination antiretroviral therapy regimens for patients worldwide.

The primary application is as an API in oral solid and liquid dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and syrups, manufactured for HIV/AIDS treatment protocols in the pharmaceutical industry.

Zidovudine is also incorporated into fixed-dose combination products alongside other antiretrovirals, requiring precise blending and compatibility assessment during the formulation development process.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers sourcing it as an intermediate use it in the synthesis of combination drug substances subject to stringent regulatory review and high quality control standards.

Research institutions and generic drug developers procure it as a reference standard or starting material for bioequivalence and stability studies to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Zidovudine is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is available in USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. grades to meet the documentation requirements of regulated markets.

Quantities range from research-scale to commercial bulk, with full batch documentation typically required by regulated-market buyers to ensure compliance with international manufacturing guidelines.