(ATDN) New Treatment Options


(ATDN) New Treatment Options

Treatment Review No. 13; August 1994

Zovirax - also known as acyclovir, has been used for many years by people with herpes, as well as AIDS. As we reported last issue, this drug has recently been shown to actually increase the survival time of people with AIDS. As the studies continue to be looked at - the Australian government has approved the drug for the treatment of HIV disease - people with AIDS and HIV will surely begin to take this drug. Zovirax is a relatively safe drug. Side effects are rare. Perhaps the most encouraging news is that the dose of the drug tested was less than what many people currently take.

Zerit - Another nucleoside analogue (a type of drug that includes AZT, ddC and ddI) has just been approved in the United States. The drug, d4t (also known as Zerit) may provide an important treatment option for people who cannot take other HIV treatments such as AZT. There are some considerable side effects that might occur when taking the drug, most notably peripheral neuropathy. The Network has a complete description of the drug and its possible side effects. Call for a copy.

Famcyclovir - A new drug is now available for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Famcyclovir. The drug is similar to acyclovir but has a daily dosage of three pills instead of five. It is made by Smith-Kline Beecham and the brand name will be Famvir. Zithromax - Zithromax (azithromycin) is an antibiotic drug that is very effective at treating certain infectious diseases such as chlamydia. It is also used in combination with other drugs as treatment for toxoplasmosis and MAC. An intravenous form of Zithromax for patients who cannot tolerate the gastrointestinal side effects of the regular product is also now available. Physicians can call (800) 742-3029 for information on the study requirements. Pfizer provides the drug and all lab work at no cost. Pfizer are also developing a lactose-free suspension (drinkable) Zithromax that may cause few side effects. Call the Premier Research Access Program at (800) 742-3029 for access to standard Zithromax.

DHPG (pills) - A New Drug Application (NDA) has been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for Oral Ganciclovir. The company that makes it, Syntex Corporation, wants FDA approval to market the drug for maintenance treatment of CMV (cytomegalovirus). This means that once someone has completed the treatment phase for CMV, usually 21 days of the drug by infusion, they would take the pills. At the moment maintenance therapy for CMV involves receiving the drug intravenously through a permanent catheter that is surgically implanted in the chest. It may not be necessary for someone with CMV to have a permanent catheter put in if this drug works.

Valacyclovir - Burroughs-Wellcome is seeking FDA approval to market a new version of acyclovir for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). Valacyclovir has been shown in studies to help stop the pain associated with shingles attacks faster than acyclovir. It is also being studied for the treatment and prevention of herpes simplex virus.


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This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
©1994. AEGIS.