Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2007. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
United Press International - October 16, 2007
The FDA said the drug was approved for use "in combination with other anti-retroviral agents in treatment-experienced adult patients who have evidence of viral replication and HIV-1 strains resistant to multiple anti-retroviral agents."
Officials said raltegravir is the first agent of the pharmacological class known as HIV integrase strand transfer inhibitors that are designed to interfere with the enzyme that HIV-1 needs to multiply.
"This is an important new product for many HIV-infected patients whose infections are not being controlled by currently available medications," said Dr. Janet Woodcock, the FD A's deputy commissioner for scientific and medical programs.
The FDA said the long-term effects of raltegravir are not yet known, and its safety and effectiveness for pregnant women and in children younger than 16 years has not been studied.
Raltegravir is sold under the brand name Isentress and is distributed by Merck & Co. Inc.
071016
UPI071011
Copyright © 2007 - United Press International. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through United Press International, Permissions Desk, 1510 H St. N.W. Washington DC 2005. Main Phone Switchboard: 202-898-8000 FAX: 202-898-8057 or 202-898-8147 Email: info@upi.com.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from the Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2007. 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, 2007. 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. .