Zidovudine kinetics in the pregnant baboon

Article Abstract:

Pregnant women who take zidovudine (AZT) pills may not achieve high enough blood levels to prevent transmission of HIV to their infants. Researchers measured the clearance and volume of distribution of zidovudine in 19 baboons, some of whom were pregnant. The drug was given as an oral drink or was infused through a catheter for up to 24 hours. Dosages were similar to those given to HIV-infected humans. During intravenous infusion, the blood levels of zidovudine remained above the level needed to suppress the virus, but after oral intake, blood levels of the drug dropped significantly below the therapeutic level in less than two hours. Pregnant baboons cleared the drug 40% faster than nonpregnant baboons and the volume of distribution in pregnant baboons was 75% higher than in nonpregnant baboons. However, the rate of drug clearance dropped 30% during the course of the pregnancy.

Models, HIV infection

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Effect of zidovudine on blood composition of the pregnant and fetal baboon

Article Abstract:

Administration of the antiviral drug zidovudine during labor may not adversely affect placental function or fetal health. Researchers administered four to 48 hours of zidovudine infusion to 18 baboons in the third trimester of pregnancy and their fetuses. Zidovudine was not found to affect blood gases, blood cell counts, blood chemistry, electrolytes, or hormone levels in either fetuses or their mothers. Higher doses of zidovudine in the fetus did not have adverse effects. Zidovudine administration during labor has been recommended to prevent transmission of HIV from infected mothers to their fetuses.

Labor (Obstetrics)

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Implications of the kinetics of zidovudine in the pregnant baboon following oral administration

Article Abstract:

Many pregnant women infected with HIV may need higher doses of zidovudine so their fetus will benefit from the drug. Zidovudine can substantially reduce HIV transmission rates between mother and child. Researchers gave a 100-milligram dose of zidovudine to six pregnant baboons and measured drug levels in the blood of mother and baby. The peak drug level in the baby was only 52% of the level in the mother. This could explain some cases where the drug fails to protect the baby from HIV.

Drug therapy, Pregnancy, HIV infection in pregnancy

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