What it means
Zidovudine (Retrovir) was the first drug approved for HIV, and AZT came from its chemical name, azidothymidine. ISMP lists AZT as error-prone because it has been mistaken for azithromycin, azathioprine and aztreonam.
For the nurse
Write "zidovudine" in full. If an order says AZT, clarify it with the prescriber before giving anything.
Related terms
HIV/AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, its most advanced stage, written together.