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Didanosine, a new antiretroviral drug

A review

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Abstract

In this article the literature about didanosine, an antiretroviral drug, is reviewed. The mechanism of action, biochemical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical results of phase-I trials are discussed. Serious adverse effects such as pancreatitis and peripheral neuropathy have occurred in these trials. An antiretroviral effect was observed in terms of an increase in CD4+ lymphocytes and a decrease in p24 antigen levels in HIV-infected individuals. Didanosine seems to be a promising drug against HIV infection, but knowledge about its clinical efficacy is scanty.

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Author notes

  1. R. M. E. Franssen

    Present address: Department of Pharmacy, Academic Medical Centre, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmacy, Slotervaart Hospital, Louwesweg 6, 1066, EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    R. M. E. Franssen, C. H. W. Koks &  J. H. Beijnen

  2. Department of Internal Medicine, Slotervaart Hospital, The Netherlands

    P. L. Meenhorst

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  1. R. M. E. Franssen
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Franssen, R.M.E., Meenhorst, P.L., Koks, C.H.W. et al. Didanosine, a new antiretroviral drug. Pharmaceutisch Weekblad Scientific Edition 14, 297–304 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01977617

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