Short‐term toxicity assessment of combined use of zidovudine, lamivudine and lopinavir/ritonavir in vitro and in vivo

Introduction A combination of zidovudine (AZT), lamivudine (3TC) and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) is one of the most effective drugs for preventing mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. However, limited information is available regarding its systemic toxicity. This study aimed to investigate its potential toxicity. Method An acute oral toxicity test was conducted to assess the potential acute toxicity of AZT + 3TC + LPV/r. Bacterial reverse mutation, mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus and mouse spermatogonia chromosomal aberration tests were conducted to assess its potential genotoxicity. A 28‐day feeding test was conducted to assess the potential subacute toxicity. Results In mice, the LD50 of the AZT + 3TC + LPV/r mixture was greater than 2000 mg/kg body weight (BW). The rate of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs) increased in a dose‐dependent manner in mice (P