The New Zealand AIDS Foundation welcomes the decision to fund access to a new anti-HIV treatment which will combat pill-burden and reduce side effects common with other anti-HIV medication. Reyataz (atazanavir sulphate) is produced by BMS Virology (Bristol-Myers Squibb Company). A ‘protease inhibitor' (PI), it is used in conjunction with other anti –HIV medication as part of HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy). It works, as do other PI`s by stopping HIV from producing more viruses (replication). NZAF National Positive Health Manager Eamonn Smythe says it is “good news for positive people as this is the first PI available here in New Zealand that is once daily.” This makes it both easier to remember and reduces the pill burden so commonly associated with HIV medications. Current PI regimes range from 6 to a staggering 18 tablets/capsules per day and if you are on a HAART regime this is only part of the story. In addition to a reduced pill burden, a review by the antiretroviral subcommittee in New Zealand last year noted that Reyataz had fewer metabolic side effects than other Protease Inhibitors, and its use in other countries bears this up, with many positive people having reduced gastro intestinal problems, such as nausea and diarrhea. Side effects, says Eamonn Smythe, are one of the main issues in relation to the taking of antiretroviral medication. ‘”There is no doubt that anti-retroviral medication saves lives, however, the very same tablets can also cause the quality of that life to be diminished.” Reyataz can increase levels of bilirubin, a pigment found in the liver. Increased bilirubin can cause the skin, nails, and the whites of the eyes to appear yellowish-brown. However, in people who have taken Reyataz in clinical trials, an increase in bilirubin has not been associated with any other signs of liver damage. Protease Inhibitors as a group may induce nausea, tiredness, diarrhoea, rash, increased lipid levels (fat in the blood) –increasing cardiac risk, increased blood sugar levels (diabetes's) and loss (or gain) of body fat. NZAF welcomes the full funding of any medication that reduces these side effects, and which will enable HIV-positive people to have more control of their lives. Ref: NZAF (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 1st November 2006 - 12:00pm