Long-term toxicity/activity profile of 2',3'-dideoxyinosine in AIDS or AIDS-related complex

To evaluate the long-term toxicity and activity profile of 2',3'-dideoxyinosine (ddI), a potent inhibitor of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication, in vitro. 58 patients with AIDS or AIDS-related complex were studied with additional reference to the effect of previous treatment with zidovudine, and the effect of ddI on HIV-induced cognitive dysfunction. Doses above 9.6 mg/kg per day of ddI were frequently associated with toxicity (peripheral neuropathy, pancreatitis, or hepatitis). Doses of 9.6 mg/kg per day or below were well tolerated for up to 21 months. A subset of patients receiving 3.2-9.6 mg/kg per day of ddI had long-term immunological improvement and reduction of serum HIV p24 antigen. Immunological changes were especially seen in patients who had little previous zidovudine therapy. 5 patients with HIV-induced cognitive impairment improved with ddI. Thus, ddI may have anti-HIV activity at doses which are tolerated for long-term therapy, although pancreatitis could be a life-threatening complication.