A Comparison of ISIS 2922 Used Immediately or Later in Patients With Cytomegalovirus (CMV) of the Eyes

To determine a clinically safe and effective dose of intravitreally injected ISIS 2922 and to compare the safety and efficacy of immediate versus delayed treatment in AIDS patients with previously untreated, peripheral cytomegalovirus ( CMV ) retinitis.

In Stage 1 (dose escalation), patients receive either 75 or 150 mcg intravitreal ISIS 2922. In Stage 2 (randomization), patients are enrolled in either the immediate treatment group or delayed treatment group. Immediate treatment consists of intravitreal ISIS 2922 every 7 days for 3 injections (Induction) then every 14 days for 18 weeks (Maintenance). Patients in the delayed treatment group receive no immediate anti-CMV treatment but are monitored weekly for disease progression. If disease progresses, patient receives ISIS 2922 on an identical dosage regimen as those on immediate treatment. Patients may continue ISIS 2922 on a biweekly extended maintenance schedule if dose is considered safe and the CMV retinitis is clinically controlled. Per 2/8/96 amendment, patients are now in Stage 2 at 150 mcg.