New findings may impact HIV drug (ritonavir) use

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New

findings may impact HIV drug use

Posted: 27 Jul 2010 06:26 PM

PDT

Sydney Morning Herald:

" The findings showed that Ritonavir, an older, commonly used drug, which

was formerly linked to heart risk, had more adverse effects on people's

metabolisms than the newer drug, Raltegravir.

" Ritonavir looks like it's increasing blood fat levels, not only when

people are fasting but also after (eating) meals, " one of the researchers,

Associate Professor Samaras, told AAP. ...

" The key message, she says, is that each individual's heart risk profile

should be assessed before prescriptions are decided.

" 'When we weigh up the risks and the benefits of HIV treatment, we have to

consider the best drug to stop the virus,' she said.

" 'If there are other drugs available that do the job equally well then it

looks like (some) people should be considered for (a drug) that does not

increase heart risk.' "

- Mark