Weight-adapted fixed-dose combined adult antiretroviral tablets for HIV-infected children

What is known and objective:Therapeutic alternatives to simplify antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-infected children are needed. We report our experience with abacavir(ABC)/lamivudine(3TC) individualized dose compounded capsules (IDCC).

Comment: We present a prospective case series of HIV-infected children who did not weigh enough to receive the adult fixed-dose combination including ABC/3TC 600mg/300mg, and were treated with weight-adapted ABC/3TC IDCC in Barcelona, Spain. Thirteen patients (12 girls) received ABC/3TC IDCC for a median(IQR) time of 30(17-54) months. No significant changes were observed in CD4 cell counts, weight or height z-scores over time. Suppression of viral replication was maintained in 7 patients with undetectable viremia at baseline. Another 5 patients achieved viral suppression with ABC/3TC IDCC-based ART, while one non-adherent girl did not. No adverse events related to ABC/3TC IDCC were observed.

What is new and conclusion: Despite small numbers, the long-term use of ABC/3TC IDCC was feasible, safe, and effective in the treatment of HIV-infected children.