Efavirenz and Lamivudine/Zidovudine for Treatment-Naive HIV Infected Adults in Senegal

A Pilot Study of Safety, Effectiveness, and Adherence of Lamivudine/Zidovudine and Efavirenz (3TC/ZDV + EFV) to Treat HIV-1 Infection in Senegal

The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of the anti-HIV drugs efavirenz and lamivudine/zidovudine given to treatment-naive HIV-infected people in Dakar, Senegal.

Despite a relatively low prevalence of HIV infection, all HIV subtypes have been documented in Senegal. Data on mutations that confer resistance to antiretroviral (ARV) drugs are limited to HIV subtype B; adherence data are also limited. The study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of an ARV regimen given to treatment-naive HIV infected adults and adolescents. The study will also examine the characteristics of virologic failure and adherence in this treatment group. Participants will be recruited at two sites in Dakar, Senegal.

This study will last 96 weeks. At study entry, all participants will be given an ARV regimen of lamivudine/zidovudine twice daily and efavirenz once daily. If toxicity or treatment failure occurs, some participants may require changes in their ARV regimens. There will be 14 study visits during the study; a physical exam, blood collection, and sociodemographic and medication history assessments will occur at each visit. Participants will also be asked to complete quality-of-life and adherence questionnaires. An off-study visit will occur at approximately one month after Week 96, with assessments and procedures similar to visits during the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• HIV-infected
• Have never taken ARV drugs
• CD4 count of 200 cells/mm3 or less within 30 days of study entry if asymptomatic OR CD4 count of 350 cells/mm3 or less within 60 days of study entry if CDC Category A or B clinical condition present OR clinical diagnosis of AIDS, regardless of CD4 count
• Willing to stay in the study area for the duration of the study
• Willing to use acceptable forms of contraception

Exclusion Criteria:

• HIV-2 infected
• Systemic chemotherapy (except interferon) within 6 months prior to study entry
• Current drug or alcohol abuse that, in the opinion of the investigator, may interfere with the study
• Serious illness, including any active AIDS-defining infection, active tuberculosis, malaria, or any illness requiring systemic treatment or hospitalization. People who have completed therapy or are clinically stable on therapy for at least 14 days prior to study entry are not excluded.
• Serious psychiatric problems within 60 days of study entry, including depression, suicidal thoughts or attempts, aggressive behavior, or psychosis-like symptoms
• Have taken certain medications within 30 days of study entry
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding