Placebo or no placebo?

Article Abstract:

A novel approach to evaluating a drug to treat patients with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is being taken by British and French researchers. AIDS patients will have the option of participating in a standard randomized trial (Option A), in which they will be randomly assigned to a high-dose or a low-dose dideoxyinosine (ddI) group, or to a placebo (inactive drug) control group. If patients choose Option B they will participate in a randomized trial in which they will only be assigned to either of the two ddI groups. Such 'compassionate release' of the drug is in response to pressure from AIDS activists against the drug's producer, Bristol-Meyers Squibb, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Suprisingly, some patients have already registered for Option A. Tony Pinching, who will be in charge of the British studies, estimated that because of 'compassionate release' about ten times as many people have received ddI than in the more controlled studies demanded by protocols in the United States. Zidovudine (AZT) is presently the only drug licensed in Britain for treating AIDS patients, but 30 to 40 percent of the patients receiving AZT must stop treatment because of side effects, such as nausea and anorexia (loss of appetite). ddI works in a manner similar to that of AZT and it is known to decrease the amount of HIV (Human immunodeficiency) virus, the virus that causes AIDS) in the blood of AIDS patients, but it has not yet shown the clinical benefits produced by AZT. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Usage, Testing, Drug therapy, Antiviral agents, AIDS (Disease), Placebos

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The toads are coming!

Article Abstract:

Buffo marinus known as cane toad in Australian landscape are forwarding to the city in Darwin. The scientists are present with their best opportunity to investigate the ecological impact of the amphibians in Darwin.

Australia, Behavior, Environmental aspects, Amphibians, Toads, Darwin, Australia

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