Stavudine In Patients With Aids And Aids-Related Complex: Aids Clinical Trials Group 089

Abstract

In a phase I trial of stavudine in AIDS or AIDS-related complex (ARC), antiviral effects and safety were assessed in 41 patients treated with dosages of 0.5–12.0 mg/kg/day. Among evaluable patients, 10% increases in CD4lymphocyte counts were sustained in 24 (60%) of 40 during treatment; an NAVC response (normalized area under the CD4 cell count-versus-time curve > 1.0) was observed in 31 (91 %) of 34 at 10 weeks and in 20 (80%) of 25 at 24 weeks; 15 (83%) of 18 had decreases in p24 antigenemia; and 24 (60%) of 40 gained >2.5 kg body weight. Median CD4lymphocyte levels remained above baseline for 6 months in patients receiving >0.5 rug/kg/day. Median serum p24 antigen levels remained below baseline for >1 year in patients with p24 antigen responses. The principal toxicity was peripheral neuropathy, which generally resolved after drug discontinuation but limited the dosage to <2.0 rug/kg/day. Additional trials assessing the effect of stavudine on overall morbidity and mortality are ongoing.