Management of HIV infection in Nigeria with zalcitabine in combination with saquinavir mesylate: preliminary findings.

The efficacy and safety of a combination therapy with two anti-retroviral drugs, zalcitabine (ddC) and saquinavir mesylate was evaluated in 24 adult Nigerian patients with HIV infection. The result of an interim analysis after a 6-month course of therapy is presented herein. Patients were given zalcitabine 2.25 mg and saquinavir 1800 mg per day. Efficacy was evaluated by improvement in the CD4 cell count and disappearance and/or resolution of clinical signs and symptoms from the patient baseline condition. Tolerability and safety were assessed by the occurrence of adverse event and monitoring of biochemical parameters such as alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin. The haemogram profile of patients was also monitored. There was clinical improvement in 79.2% of the patients, a minimal increase in the CD4 cell count was observed and the incidence of adverse event was 40%. The haematological and biochemical profile of the patients were not significantly affected by treatment (p > 0.05). We therefore conclude that the drug cocktail comprising zalcitabine and saquinavir does posses good potentials for effective management of Nigerian patients with HIV infection. However, it is imperative and important to continue treatment with the drugs for a longer time in order to demonstrate sustained response.