Tenofovir (PMPA) Compassionate Access Study Opens

A small compassionate access study of tenofovir DF, an experimental antiretroviral which is a prodrug of PMPA, has started enrolling. [Tenofovir DF is given orally, and changes to PMPA (tenofovir) inside the body; PMPA itself is not being developed as a treatment, because it would have to be administered by injection.]

Because of limited drug supply, priority is currently given to patients with a viral load of at least 10,000, and a CD4 count under 50 (those with a CD4 count of 50-200 and documented evidence of an AIDS-defining active opportunistic infection within the last 90 days may also be eligible). For enrollment information, physicians can call Gilead Sciences' Tenofovir Compassionate Access Study, 1-800-276-0231, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.