The progression of immunodeficiency due to HIV infection can be delayed by using AZT. The benefits of AZT in adults with AIDS and severe AIDS-related complex (ARC) appear to last for approximately 12 to 18 months, at which time most patients have progressive deterioration. Recently published literature has described a reduced sensitivity of HIV isolated from patients after prolonged AZT treatment. Although the clinical significance of this is unclear, it makes the development of new antiretroviral drugs important.
Children who show AZT intolerance and/or progressive disease after 6 months of AZT therapy receive oral ddI at 1 of 2 doses for a minimum of 48 weeks, with a 48-week extension. Patients are seen for clinical and laboratory evaluations at scheduled times during the study. (Per 5/12/92 amendment, new patients will not be enrolled in the pharmacokinetics studies.) Per 10/31/94 amendment: Patients are eligible to receive blinded study drug for an additional 8-16 weeks after the final on-study visit, but no later than 2/15/95.
