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Is antiretroviral treatment after percutaneous HIV exposure justified?

Article Abstract:

The scientific basis for the prophylactic use of zidovudine after exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has not been validated. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. Zidovudine is an antiretroviral drug used to treat AIDS. Medical personnel exposed to HIV should thoroughly understand the limitations of current research on the prophylactic use of zidovudine. They should also be made aware of potential side effects of the drug. Its prophylactic value has not been evaluated in studies that compared those who received the drug and those who did not, therefore the success or failure of the treatment cannot be evaluated. There is also a lack of information on the long-term risks and benefits of using the drug prophylactically.

AIDS (Disease), Zidovudine

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Resisting resistance: maximizing the durability of antiretroviral therapy

Article Abstract:

The most effective drug therapy for HIV infection should maximally suppress viral replication to prevent development of drug-resistant strains of the virus. Many HIV patients have taken multiple antiviral drugs in succession and may already be infected with resistant strains. A combination of drugs, each targeting a different viral process and given in the highest tolerable doses, will most effectively prevent resistance. Suboptimal dosing and poor adherence to drug treatment regimens facilitates viral resistance to drug therapy. Testing for viral susceptibility to drugs may improve treatment.

Usage, HIV (Viruses), HIV, Drug resistance, Drug therapy, Combination, Combination drug therapy, Virus replication

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The Case for More Cautious, Patient-Focused Antiretroviral Therapy

Article Abstract:

The author reports on discontent among many doctors with the existing premise of treatment for HIV, i.e., early, heavy-dosage drug attacks on the viral load. He points to the idea that the best interests of both patients and society is to maintain the patients' health while avoiding side effects from the drugs. It is also in a patient's best interest to treat in such a way that future treatment options are not eliminated. He says that the early onslaught of antiretrovirals usually is only effective for a short time and in patients who have previously had no treatment.

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