"Drug May Help Slow Progression of AIDS, Early Studies Suggest"

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1992. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

"Drug May Help Slow Progression of AIDS, Early Studies Suggest"

Wall Street Journal (12/21/92), P. B7

Abstract: The onset of AIDS may be slowed by the drug thymopentin when used in combination with AZT, according to Immunobiology Research Institute, a Johnson + Johnson unit. The data on thymopentin, also known as TP5, is currently being discussed by the company and the Food and Drug Administration. Marcus Conant, a San Francisco AIDS physician, said the study followed the progress of 173 patients who received AZT plus TP5, and 179 who were administered AZT plus a placebo. Patients were subsequently observed for development of AIDS, from a state of being asymptomatic to AIDS-related complex (ARC), from ARC to AIDS, or from AIDS to death. Dr. Conant said that after 48 weeks three people in the TP5 group had worsened, while 16 people in the control group had worsened. A company spokesman said TP5 is a synthetic hormone that imitates the active portion of the natural hormone thymopoientin, which is believed to incite the body's immune system. The drug, which is given as an injection three times a week, has the advantage of low toxicity in patients who receive it, said Dr. Conant. Tests are continuing on TP5 in an attempt to determine whether giving the immune-booster can, in fact, stabilize patients. The early findings are promising, but far from conclusive, said Dr. Conant.

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