Efavirenz based regimen must be the first line ARV treatment in India

[Guest guest]

Dear FORUM,

India is seriously considering Universal ART and naturally we will be opting

the cheapest regimens like Stavudine/ zidovudine, lamivudine, nevirapine. I

feel we should consider Efavirenz based regimen as the first line as the studies

from the west shows this regimen is in many ways better than even

PI based regimens.

In Indian conditions this regimen will simplify the program and save the expense

in implementation

1.It simplifies the regimen and operational feasibility

2.it is simple regimen with few side effects

3. can be given with Rifampicine

4.need not increase the dosage

5.As durable and potent as PIs with no side effects

I would like to know the thoughts of experts on this

Dr.Ajithkumar.K

Department Of Dermatology, MCCH ;MG Kav

Thrissur, Kerala, India

E-mail: <trc_ajisudha@...>