AZT: Unsafe at any Dose?

AZT and Mitochondria

Mitochondria are the energy regulating organelles in every living cell. Because they are self-replicating and therefore have their own DNA they are susceptible to damage from drugs (such as AZT) that interfere with DNA replication (mitosis). In fact, they are more susceptible, because they don't have the same repair mechanisms as the DNA in the cell's nucleus. Symptoms of mitochondrial damage are varied, but often include muscle damage, as the ability of the cells to obtain energy is diminished.