North West ready to roll out fixed dose ARVs

(Image: GCIS)

The new pill, launched on Monday by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, is a combination of all three antiretroviral pills - emtricitabine, efavirenz and tenofovir.

It will be administered to all newly diagnosed patients that are eligible to be put on ARV treatment, pregnant women and HIV positive breastfeeding mothers.

North West Health MEC Dr Magome Masike announced on Tuesday that a significant number of clinical health professionals in the province have already been trained on the FDC in preparation of the rollout to eligible groups.

"Health officials will execute the rollout with due diligence and communicate the rollout to those currently receiving treatment," Dr Masike said.

The province is currently providing antiretroviral treatment to about 181,557 patients.

Dr Masike explained that priority will be given to all stable patients and non-complicated patients after consultation with their clinicians.

Those currently receiving ARV treatment will be switched to the new pill at a later stage.
"The pill is easy to take, highly effective with fewer or no side effects and in no way inferior to taking three individual drugs.

"The introduction of the fixed dose combination pill will definitely improve adherence to treatment and reduce the risk of patients defaulting treatment," he said.