Survey: China Sees Rapid Resistance To HIV Drugs
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
A national survey of China reveals that in excess of 17 percent of its HIV patients developed drug resistance to the seven drugs available in the country. Government researchers revealed the survey results at an international AIDS conference. They noted that only seven of more than 20 HIV drugs are available in China, allowing resistance to be built up more quickly than in countries where patients have more drug options. The instances of resistance occurred during 2006 and 2007 even though China began its free-drug program in 2003, indicating a more rapid mutation of the virus than usually expected. The researchers also said resistance appeared more prevalent among families with low and unstable incomes. (Click here for more