Abstract

AIDS: Efavirenz (SUSTIVA), a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), was approved for adults and children by the Food and Drug Administration. As with other NNRTI's, efavirenz must be taken with additional antiretroviral drugs. Decisions about which drug combinations will be most effective and least toxic to the patient, along with long term treatment strategies should be made by physicians in conjunction with the patient. Some possible combinations are discussed. Using efavirenz may reduce the need for protease inhibitors (PI's). Side effects related to the central nervous system have been reported by over half of the patients, but tend to disappear after 2 to 4 weeks of treatment. Efavirenz is not recommended for pregnant women. Many organizations and individuals are lobbying to have the price of efavirenz reduced and to have it qualify for acceptance by AIDS Drug Assistance Programs. Contact information is provided.