Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Infection in 1998

Accumulating data from clinical and pathogenesis studies continue to support early institution of potent antiretroviral therapy in patients with HIV infection. A variety of combination regimens show potency, expanding choices for initial regimens for individual patients. Plasma HIV RNA assays with increased sensitivity are important in monitoring therapeutic response; however, more data are needed to determine precisely the HIV RNA levels that define treatment failure. Long-term adverse drug effects are beginning to emerge, requiring ongoing attention. Some issues regarding optimal long-term approaches to antiretroviral management are unresolved. The increased complexity in HIV management requires ongoing monitoring of new data for optimal treatment of HIV infection.