Access to new ddI formulations: Liquid and compact tablets now available for adults

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Two alternative formulations of ddI are now available on a named patient basis in the UK for people who can't tolerate standard ddI tablets.

Reduced mass 200mg tablets, which contain less of the buffer solution responsible for diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal side-effects often experienced with ddI, will be made available to anyone having problems tolerating four 100mg tablets daily. This formulation is unlikely to be licensed in Europe until the last quarter of 1999.

A powdered form of ddI for making an oral solution, previously available only for use in children, is also available for adults who have difficulty in tolerating the tablet form of ddI.

Glossary

named patient basis prescribing

A means of access to an unlicensed drug, in which a doctor requests supplies from its manufacturer for a specific individual.

diarrhoea

Abnormal bowel movements, characterised by loose, watery or frequent stools, three or more times a day.

formulation

The physical form in which a drug is manufactured or administered. Examples of formulations include tablets, capsules, powders, and oral and injectable solutions. A drug may be available in multiple formulations.

gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms

Relating to or affecting the gut, stomach or bowel. GI symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain (cramps), constipation, gas in the gastrointestinal tract, nausea, vomiting and GI bleeding. Among several possible causes of GI symptoms are infections and antiretroviral medicines.

 

oral

Refers to the mouth, for example a medicine taken by mouth.

In both cases, doctors should contact the Medical Department at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

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