Slim J, Perez G, Forrester C, Tonnesen G, Johnson ES; International Conference on AIDS.

Int Conf AIDS. 1989 Jun 4-9; 5: 407 (abstract no. W.B.P.336).

Saint Michael's Medical Center, Newark, New Jersey, USA

OBJECTIVE: To describe characteristics and effects of Zidovudine usage in an intravenous drug user population. METHODS: A retrospective review of 43 patients studied from 2/87 through 7/88 who were followed bi-weekly in a clinic environment with complete cell counts (CBC) chemistry profiles and physical examinations. RESULTS: Seven patients never filled their prescriptions. Of the remaining 36 (30 males, 6 females) the mean duration of therapy was 6 months. CBC testing showed 14/36 with a significant decrease in white cell count, and 4/36 with a significant decrease in hemoglobin (all four with Mycobacterium Avium-Intracellular infection). Subsequently 6/36 felt improvement with four showing greater than 10 pounds of weight gain, 7/36 had worsening of their condition with five developing Mycobacterium Avium- Intracellular infection. No patients showed improvement in CD 4 cell counts and 50% showed decreases. CONCLUSION: Leukopenia was the primary effect noted and Mycobacterium Avium-Intracellular infection the principal documented reason for deterioration on therapy. Side effects however are comparable to those reported in the homosexual cohorts studied.

Publication Types:

• Meeting Abstracts

Keywords:

• Female
• Homosexuality
• Humans
• Leukopenia
• Male
• Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare Infection
• Substance Abuse, Intravenous
• Zidovudine

Other ID:

• 00206289

UI: 102177969

From Meeting Abstracts