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Antiretroviral therapy in the year 2000
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Miriam Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA. ktashima@lifespan.org
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|January 6, 2001
Summary
Antiretroviral medications offer diverse treatment options with non-overlapping resistance profiles. Guidelines aid in selecting optimal drug combinations for viral suppression, considering adherence and future therapy needs.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- A wide array of antiretroviral medications are available and in development.
- These medications encompass five distinct classes with non-overlapping resistance pathways.
- Current treatment strategies involve combinations of three or four drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the considerations for selecting initial antiretroviral therapy.
- To highlight the role of resistance testing in guiding subsequent treatment choices.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing antiretroviral medication classes and resistance profiles.
- Analysis of factors influencing initial antiretroviral regimen selection.
- Evaluation of the utility of phenotypic and genotypic resistance testing.
Main Results:
- Five antiretroviral drug classes exist with independent resistance development.
- Optimal combination therapy selection is guided by established clinical guidelines.
- Key factors for initial therapy include viral suppression, adherence, side effects, and preserving future options.
Conclusions:
- Antiretroviral therapy selection involves balancing efficacy, tolerability, and long-term treatment strategies.
- Resistance testing is a valuable tool for optimizing salvage regimens.
- Continued research and guideline development are crucial for effective HIV management.