A study sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy andInfectious Diseases (NIAID) said didanosine (ddI) andzalcitabine (ddC) were similarly effective and safe in slowingthe progression of disease in people infected with HIV who nolonger benefit from zidovudine (AZT) or who are intolerant ofits side effects.

ddI is the only anti-HIV medication currently approved by FDAfor single-drug use in patients who cannot take or do notrespond to treatment with AZT. ddC is indicated for use incombination with AZT.

The findings of the community-based study suggest thatsingle-drug therapy with ddC has a role in the treatment ofpeople with HIV disease who cannot tolerate AZT or in peoplewhose disease worsens while taking AZT, said Anthony S. Fauci,director of NIAID.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. provided ddI for the study inpowdered buffer form, while Hoffmann-La Roche supplied ddCin tablet form.

(c) 1997 American Health Consultants. All rights reserved.