Used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection as part of antiretroviral therapy. It is particularly utilized in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV during childbirth when other treatment options are not available. Often included in combination regimens due to its ability to inhibit reverse transcriptase, an enzyme essential for viral replication. Also used in resource-limited settings because of its stability at room temperature and low cost. Commonly administered in both adult and pediatric formulations.