Even though this study provides valuable data, it really doesn't tell us something we didn't already suspect. Given the superiority of triple combinations, one has to question the ethics of continuing to study two drug combinations in people with less than 200 T-cells. Abacavir is the most powerful reverse transcriptase inhibitor that we have seen so far. With reports of almost 2 log reductions in viral load among study participants, this drug appears to be at least as potent as the protease inhibitors. However, unlike 3TC, even with the development of resistance, abacavir appears to retain some antiviral activity.
Current studies show excellent bioavailability.
The most common side effects reported to date are headache and nausea. Studies of abacavir are ongoing and FDA approval of the drug is seen as likely early in 1998. Meanwhile, Glaxo Wellcome has announced the formation of a three-armed compassionate use program. The program will be limited to a total of 2,500 participants in the U.S., Europe and Australia. In addition to these criteria, the child must have tried one reverse transcriptase inhibitor and failed on that drug.