Abstract

AIDS: Gilead Sciences is removing the CD-4 and viral load requirements for people to enter its expanded access program for adefovir dipivoxil (PREVEON). The program changes must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Exceptions are already being made for people who take either efavirenz (Sustiva) or abacavir (1592U89) so they can begin two or three new drugs at once in case of current treatment failure. Adefovir, taken once a day, lowers viral loads, may have fewer resistance problems, and is also active against many herpes viruses. Current clinical trials are determining the best way to use adefovir in combination therapy with other antiretrovirals.