Abbott Protease Inhibitor Lottery in January, CD4 Under 50 -- Registration Now

Abbott Laboratories will make its protease inhibitor ritonavir (formerly called ABT-538) available to 2,000 people worldwide, in an expanded access program starting in January. Since many more than 2,000 are expected to apply, a lottery will be used to select who gets the drug.

This program is limited to persons over the age of 12, with CD4 count under 50. There are additional medical qualifications.

Physicians and patients can obtain more information by calling 800/414-AIDS, or by fax at 800/336-2879, or by email at ritonavir@pond.com.