Prioritising the most needed paediatric antiretroviral formulations: the PADO4 list

Area of Science:

• Pediatric HIV/AIDS treatment
• Antiretroviral drug development
• Global health policy

Background:

• Progress in pediatric HIV treatment has been made, but optimal antiretroviral (ARV) formulations for children remain scarce.
• Existing global policies recommend effective ARV regimens, yet access for pediatric populations is insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review medium-term and long-term priorities for ARV drug development.
• To guide stakeholders on essential formulations for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• To update the list of priority ARV formulations for pediatric use.

Main Methods:

• The Paediatric Antiretroviral Drug Optimization group convened in December 2018.
• Assessed progress in ARV drug optimization since the previous meeting.
• Discussed drug optimization for neonatal prophylaxis, pediatric treatment, and novel ARVs in adolescents and pregnant/lactating women.

Main Results:

• Identified and updated a list of priority antiretroviral formulations for pediatric populations.
• Highlighted ongoing challenges in developing optimal ARV drugs for infants, children, and adolescents.
• Emphasized the need for continued focus on identifying and prioritizing suitable ARV formulations.

Conclusions:

• Optimal antiretroviral formulations for pediatric HIV treatment remain a critical unmet need.
• Prioritizing and ensuring access to appropriate ARV formulations is essential for achieving global HIV treatment targets.
• Continued drug optimization efforts are crucial for improving outcomes in children and adolescents living with HIV.