Treatment

While the basic principles that guide treatment of pediatric HIV infection are the same as for an HIV-infected adult, there are a number of unique scientific and medical concerns that are important to consider in treating children with HIV infection. These range from differences in age-related issues such as CD4 lymphocyte counts and drug metabolism to requirements for special formulations and treatment regimens that are appropriate for infants through adolescents. As in adults, treating HIV-infected children today is a complex task of using potent combinations of antiretroviral agents to maximally suppress viral replication. NIAID investigators are defining the best treatments for pediatric patients. Currently there are 19 drug products approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating adult HIV infection. (Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in Pediatric HIV Infection, June 2003.)

NIAID-supported researchers are focusing not only on the development of new antiretroviral products but also on the critical question of how to best use the treatments that are currently available, especially in resource poor nations. Treatment strategy questions should be designed to identify, for example, the best initial therapy, when failing regimens should be modified, and strategies to address the antiretroviral needs of children with advanced disease. Another high priority is the long-term assessment of these to determine sustained antiretroviral benefits as well as to monitor for potential adverse consequences of treatment.

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Important disclaimer: The information on pkids.org is for educational purposes only and should not be considered to be medical advice. It is not meant to replace the advice of the physician who cares for your child. All medical advice and information should be considered to be incomplete without a physical exam, which is not possible without a visit to your doctor.