Results from a recent large study indicate that current or recent protease inhibitor use does not increase the risk of stroke or sudden death in people with HIV. However, the researchers did find a small increased risk over time with longer exposure to protease inhibitors.

Based on their results, the study authors recommended future studies to look for links between individual protease inhibitors and increased risk of death. However, they also noted that deaths are rare, which makes it difficult to find such links even if they exist.

According to…

Gilead Sciences and Tibotec Pharmaceuticals have finalized an agreement to develop a new once-daily antiretroviral pill that combines the protease inhibitor Prezista with Emtriva, the investigational booster cobicistat, and an investigational new form of Viread called GS 7340.

GS 7340 is expected to be safer and more effective than the current version of Viread (tenofovir). Gilead has stated that GS 7340 will enter Phase 2 clinical trials early next year.

“This is the first time we are developing a protease inhibitor-containing single-tablet regimen, and we’re able to do…

Results of a recent review indicate that people with HIV are at an increased risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes, particularly if they are on antiretroviral therapy. The authors also found that more research is needed on the most effective way to treat diabetes in HIV-positive patients.

Based on their results, the review authors recommended that people with HIV receive routine screening for diabetes before starting antiretroviral therapy, three to six months after starting therapy, and once a year thereafter.

Diabetes is a chronic disease marked by high levels of sugar…

Results from a recent study indicate that people with HIV who start early antiretroviral therapy, particularly with a protease inhibitor-based regimen, recover CD4 cell counts more quickly. Additionally, younger people also had faster CD4 recovery.

The Australian researchers said their findings provide further support for earlier initiation of antiretroviral therapy in people with HIV, particularly with a protease inhibitor-based regimen.

“The later you start therapy, the longer the time you spend with a low CD4 count. [Our study] also shows that in quite a significant number of patients, CD4 [counts]…

Results from a recent Brazilian study indicate that a high proportion of HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy have abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, almost 40 percent of HIV-positive individuals in the study were at an increased risk for heart disease.

Based on their results, the authors of the study suggested that intervention programs be implemented to reduce the risk of heart disease in people with HIV taking antiretrovirals.

Although antiretroviral therapy slows the progression of HIV and has helped prevent HIV-related deaths, it can lead to side effects such…