At the end of a very useful and informative update on the most recent anti HIV drugs, Ed Wilkins showed a slide of one of Escher’s surrealistic drawings of a labyrinth of staircases leading back upon themselves in a mind boggling journey to nowhere. The image fitted perfectly my thwarted attempts to find the exact location of this meeting. The frustration and energy expended was worth the effort. Ed always manages to put across technical and clinical information in a most accessible manner. His presentation was clear and easy to follow.

The first part of his talk dealt with the results of recent Sigma and other surveys that have already been brought to the attention of our readers. The information on new treatments included interesting observations about the non-nucleoside inhibitors, efavirenz and nevirapine and the new NRTI abacavir.

Efavirenz

Trials have shown that efavirenz only needs to be taken once daily, is effective in crossing the blood –brain barrier, it can be taken with or without food and lasts for up to 7 days (reducing problems of adherence).

Apart from the common side effects efavirenz can produce psychological effects.

Nevirapine

Ed pointed out that nevirapine was well tolerated. The dosage is twice daily and it can be taken with or without food.

Abacavir

A new nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It is taken twice a day with no food restrictions. Although it is generally well tolerated Dr Wilkins said there have been some bad reactions of hypersensitivity to the drug.

It was good to have had this opportunity and thanks must be given to the organisers and to the drug company for making the event possible.