Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2001. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Studies have shown that drug resistance testing can help optimize the selection of antiviral medications for initial treatment regimens and when planning new regimens following treatment failure.
Because drug-resistant strains of HIV can be passed from one acutely infected person to another, resistance testing can be used to evaluate drug resistance in individuals who have never received therapy. The results can help physicians and patients work together to design a targeted treatment plan that is more likely to be effective for a longer period of time.
[ back to top ]
There are a number of reasons why a person may experience treatment failure. They include: poor adherence, poor drug absorption, and drug resistance. When treatment failure is due to drug resistance, resistance testing can help determine which drugs or combination of drugs are not working as anticipated. By removing the ineffective drug or drugs from a patient's treatment, a physician can create a new treatment plan that is more likely to suppress the virus.
[ back to top ]
Treatment guidelines that include drug resistance testing have been made by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the International AIDS Society - USA Panel. They recommend drug resistance testing for the selection of new antiviral therapy regimens after treatment failure. It is also recommended that drug resistance testing be considered for patients who require, but have not yet received therapy. Resistance testing is recommended for pregnant women to optimize treatment during pregnancy and to select the best therapy to prevent the transmission of HIV to the fetus.
[ back to top ]
Copyright © 2001 - The Positive Direction. Brought to you courtesy of The Positive Direction. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the copyright owner.
ÆGIS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, iMetrikus, Inc., John M. Lloyd Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2001. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
ÆGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.