The New Zealand AIDS Foundation is advising HIV-positive people on the protease inhibitor Viracept to seek medical advice immediately following a global recall of the medication by its manufacturer, Roche. Roche announced the recall today, after a chemical analysis showed certain batches of Viracept tablets in Europe contained impurities. “We’re advising anyone taking Viracept to see their HIV clinician as soon as possible to be started on an alternative protease inhibitor, and return any stock they may have to their pharmacist,” says NZAF National Positive Health Manager Eamonn Smythe. It is estimated that around 20 people in New Zealand will be affected by the withdrawal. “This is one of the older protease inhibitors,” Smythe says. “Most people with HIV will be on one of the newer protease inhibitors.” Related links: www.nzaf.org.nz Ref: NZAF (Press Release)