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Preliminary thoughts on early data on MK-0518? Posted: Jun 1, 2006 QUESTION: What are your thoughts/concerns about MK-0518 based on the lab data so far? Best case scenario, what role would it play in combo therapy?


RESPONSE FROM: This is the Merck integrase inhibitor. This is an exciting drug with a novel target. I think this will be a major addition to our menu of therapies. Currently, we have a couple of potent but similar agents to use in the setting multi-drug resistant HIV: tipranavir and TMC114 (darunavir). The latter will likely soon be approved. The problem is that these drugs work best when coupled with another agent or two with activity against the resistant virus. Fuzeon plus one of these offers hope to many. For those who can not or will not take Fuzeon the integrase inhibitor will be essential. Further, the combo of one of the new PIs, Fuzeon and the integrase drug may provide even better results. So in summary, I see the integrase inhibitor as a salvage drug that will be added to other drugs used for similar purposes. DW

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