Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2008. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
South African Press Association - September 17, 2008
However, the department denied that any cases of HIV-positive patients smoking the life-prolonging drug, Stocrin, were reported in Gauteng.
"We will investigate, though no cases were reported to us," said Mngadi.
Mngadi warned that patients who smoked the drug were at risk of psychiatric complications and treatment failure, due to not taking the whole triple therapy.
In a bid to curb the spread of the abuse of the drug, the department used residential addresses and official identification to monitor patients on treatment.
"A patient cannot easily access treatment in a different province unless issued with a transfer letter by his/her resident province," said Mngadi.
She said this was a criminal matter and urged the public to report such acts to the police.
Meanwhile, Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson James Lorimer said smoking Stocrin gave an effect similar to heroin.
"The tablets are sold for R25 each. This practice has to be stopped as soon as possible," said Lorimer.
The DA commended provincial minister of health Brian Hlongwa for launching an investigation into the matter, he said.
080917
SA080906
Copyright © 2008 - South African Press Association. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the South African Press Association, Cotswold House, Greenacres Office Park, Cnr. Victory & Rustenburg Roads, VICTORY PARK, PO BOX 7766, JOHANNESBURG, 2000; Fax No: +27 11 782-1587/8, Tel No: +27 11 782-1600.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2008. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2008. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .