Research confirms less toxicity of HIV first-line drug efavirenz

1 June 2013 -- WHO co-authored a new article published in the AIDS journal focusing on side effects associated with nevirapine and efavirenz, HIV drugs used in first-line antiretroviral therapy. Due to frequent side effects, they can cause significant patient morbidity and are a common cause of drug discontinuation or poor adherence to treatment. The research reviewed data from eight randomized trials involving adults and children receiving these treatments. The article concludes that efavirenz leads to much lower frequency of side effects compared to nevirapine.

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30 May 2013 – Considering major developments occurred in the use of HIV Incidence assays over the past few years, the WHO and UNAIDS release a new technical update on the topic. The update also includes guidance on future directions for national policy makers and specialists working in the field.

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31 May 2013 – An HIV Department report entitled “Antiretroviral medicines in low- and middle-income countries: forecasts of global and regional demand for 2012-2015” estimates the likely demand for major antiretroviral drugs used in the first- and second-line regimens. The forecasts are based on existing trend of antiretroval drug use in countries and resources available from funding agencies and partners. These forecasts have been discussed in a joint WHO/UNAIDS consultation with pharmaceutical companies and funding agencies in November 2012 to ensure that the required resources and the production capacity by suppliers is secured to prevent global shortage.

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