May 5, 2009

Lower-Dose ARVs to Be Tested in New Gates-Funded Program

Can using lower doses of certain antiretrovirals (ARVs) deliver a high degree of effectiveness while reducing the risk of side effects and the cost associated with HIV treatment? A series of studies, funded with a $12.4 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is determined to find out.

According to an aidsmap report, the first study in the ENCORE (Evaluation of Novel Concepts in Optimization of Antiretroviral Efficacy) research program will be a 700-person clinical trial comparing two doses of Sustiva (efavirenz)—the standard dose (600 mg once daily) and a lower dose (400 mg once daily). Reducing the dose by one third would likely translate into significant cost savings—a key issue in resource-poor countries—and might cause fewer side effects, including central nervous system problems.

ENCORE, led by Sydney-based researchers Sean Emery, MD, and David Cooper, MD, will begin recruiting patients for its first study during the second half of 2009, with sites in Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America and North America. Results from the 96-week efavirenz dose comparison are expected by 2013.

The research program will also explore lower doses of Epivir (lamivudine) and Kaletra (lopinavir/ritonavir). Other ARVs suggested to be effective at lower doses include Retrovir (zidovudine), Reyataz (atazanavir) and Zerit (stavudine).

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L Fontenot, New Orleans, 2009-08-10 15:44:29
I have been taking lower does since Jan 2006. I slowly reduced, got tested, remained undetectable, reduced again and again. Now I take 80% less dosage than prescribed and my t-cells are 100-200 higher every testing. I feel better and have less side effects. I have extra meds left over and wish I could donate them. Thank you

Joseph, Gainesville, 2009-05-09 07:47:24
Against my doctor's advice, I have taken my HIV meds only every other day for more than 2 years and I have some of the best labs ever. My viral load is virtually undetectable and T4 cells average between 600 & 700. I take Sustiva-600mg, Viread-300mg, Reyataz-200mg & Norvir-100mg.