Maternal and health worker preferences for paediatric antiretroviral formulations in neonates exposed to HIV
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Mothers and healthcare providers prefer novel dolutegravir (DTG) oral films for infant antiretroviral therapy over existing syrups. These new formulations offer easier administration and accurate dosing for neonates born to mothers living with HIV.
Area Of Science
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- HIV/AIDS treatment
- Pharmaceutical formulation development
Background
- Oral liquid zidovudine (ZDV) and nevirapine (NVP) are standard antiretrovirals (ARVs) for neonates exposed to HIV.
- Current formulations present challenges such as poor palatability, short shelf-life, frequent dosing, and supply issues.
Purpose Of The Study
- To assess caregiver and healthcare provider preferences for novel infant antiretroviral (ARV) formulations.
- To inform the development of acceptable and usable ARV alternatives for neonates.
Main Methods
- A preference ranking exercise was conducted within the PETITE-DTG trial (NCT05590325) in South Africa.
- Participants (28 mothers, 6 health workers) ranked six ARV formulations: ZDV syrup, NVP syrup, dolutegravir (DTG) dispersible tablet (DTG-DT), DTG oral dispersible film (DTG-film), a long-acting injectable, and a transdermal patch.
Main Results
- Both mothers and health workers strongly preferred the DTG oral dispersible film, citing ease of administration, accurate dosing, and discretion.
- Long-acting injectables were the second preference, valued for convenience despite potential discomfort.
- Existing ZDV and NVP syrups, along with the DTG dispersible tablet, were ranked lower due to preparation difficulties and spillage risks.
- Transdermal patches received the lowest preference due to concerns about infant comfort, water exposure, and efficacy.
Conclusions
- Innovative ARV formulations, particularly the DTG oral dispersible film, are highly favored for neonatal HIV treatment.
- Usability, ease of administration, and reduced dosing frequency are key factors driving preference for new ARV options.
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