A new formulation of the HIV medication Kaletra, with reduced side effects, is now available in New Zealand. Studies suggest the new Kaletra tablet is less likely to cause gastrointestinal problems than the old capsule formulation. Eamonn Smythe, Acting Executive Director of the New Zealand AIDS Foundation, says the new formulation of Kaletra is great news for positive people who have been living with its unpleasant side effects, “but it would be a mistake for HIV-negative people to think this means living with HIV is now no big deal. “Treatments for HIV are the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, and improvements to treatments basically amount to a more comfortable ambulance. It's better not to fall off the cliff in the first place - prevention is still the best weapon we have against HIV." As with all HIV drugs, it is important to take Kaletra as prescribed. Missing or skipping doses can cause your blood levels of the drug to fall too low and resistance can develop. When your virus becomes resistant to an HIV medication, that drug may stop working. Ref: NZAF, GayNZ.com (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Monday, 18th December 2006 - 12:00pm