A long time from now, trials will begin by the end of the decade.
HIV Inscriptase Inhibitor Trials Anticipated By End Of Decade
WESTPORT, Nov 20 (Reuters) - Clinical trials of inscriptase inhibitors may begin in 2 years, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Although new HIV treatments are in development, Dr. Fauci told members of the Senate Labor and Human Resources committee that the real answer to the HIV epidemic lies in prevention and vaccine development.
An article in the November 12 issue of AIDS/STD News Report summarizes comments by Dr. Fauci on the progress made in HIV/AIDS research over the last several years. Since 1987, treatment has moved from zidovudine to double therapy to protease inhibitors. However, patients have developed resistance, intolerance and toxicities to these drugs "...and deaths have only declined by 23%," he said.
Drug treatments are "...not the answer to this raging epidemic," he continued. "The only way to end this disease is with a vaccine. This is the area where research needs more money."
He also pointed out some of the "..tremendous crossover benefits from funding AIDS research." For example, 3TC, which was developed as an AIDS drug, is also potent against hepatitis B virus.
"It's time to look at second- and third-generation drugs," he continued. Treatment of HIV infection with combination therapy has become the standard, and federal support is needed to see that this treatment is available to all who need it. |
