Atripla is a New Daily HIV Pill

A new once-a-day drug called Atripla has gained approval from the FDA from treating HIV/AIDS. The drug combines three commonly used anti-retroviral drugs. This is good news to HIV/AIDS patients who are use to complex daily drug treatments involving the consumption of many different drugs throughout the day. Drug therapies were simplified earlier, when three drugs became available in a twice-a-day pill, but compliance issues were still being observed. The drug was shown to be effective in several trials, including one with over 244 patients, and was approved by the FDA?s fast-track program in less than three months. HIV/AIDS has become an epidemic, with over 40 million people currently living with the infection. Areas most affected by the virus are poorer countries such as those in Africa, where money for treatment is scarce and more education is needed to teach about the virus. Last year, HIV/AIDS was responsible for 3 million deaths. Atripla will improve patients? quality of life, as it will be easier to take. The biggest benefit will be experienced by HIV/AIDS patients in third world countries where drug compliance is an issue. The cost of this new drug will be over $1000 for a 30-day supply, which is the equivalent to the cost of purchasing the three drugs separately.