Indinavir/ritonavir remains an important component of HAART for the treatment of HIV/AIDS, particularly in resource-limited settings

Abstract

For over a decade, indinavir has been approved for the treatment of HIV/ AIDS; however, following the introduction of new protease inhibitors (PIs) with improved safety and pharmacologic profiles, its use in developed countries has become almost obsolete. In contrast, in resource-limited settings where the majority of people living with HIV/ AIDS reside, indinavir is part of the most affordable PI-based highly active antiretroviral treatment regimen. A major drawback of indinavir use is renal toxicity, but low-dose indinavir plus ritonavir (400/100 mg) twice daily is both efficacious and tolerable. Similar low dosing levels in children have also proven successful, but data in pregnant women remains limited. Due to its low cost and proven efficacy indinavir remains a key component of HIV/AIDS treatment in resource-limited settings. © 2007 Informa UK Ltd.