SAN FRANCISCO: DDC TRIAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

A major national study comparing DDC (dideoxycytidine) with AZT for treatment of persons with AIDS or severe ARC is now recruiting patients at Davies Medical Center in San Francisco. This trial will also take place in other cities, but we have been unable to obtain a list by press time.

DDC (not to be confused with DDI) is an antiviral like AZT, but it works in much smaller doses. Early trials used doses which turned out to be too large, causing peripheral neuropathy in some patients. In the new trial with reduced doses, the side effects are expected to be small and manageable.

To be accepted for the study, volunteers must have fewer than 200 T-helper cells, have no KS, and either had pneumocystis within four months before starting the trial, or have certain other AIDS-related symptoms. They must not have used AZT, and not have used acyclovir for long periods.

Although participation is free, patients must be on monthly aerosol pentamidine, which the study will not pay for.
This trial could begin in San Francisco as early as mid July. For more information call Brian Christianson, 415/565- 6153.