Abstract

AIDS: Merck's protease inhibitor, indinavir, has received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, and is being made available under a temporary distribution system through Stadtlander's Pharmacy. Indinavir's price is significantly lower than the other FDA-approved protease inhibitors. Indinavir studies found viral load decreases and improvements in CD4 counts in patients. The drug must be taken consistently at 8-hour intervals. Detailed instructions for use and warnings of potential drug interactions are included on the package insert. A shortage in supply is expected through the end of 1996, when new manufacturing facilities are opened. Patients are advised not to discontinue treatments once indinavir therapy has begun. Merck has established a tracking system to ensure that current users will have refills available.