Comparing the use of d4T-based regimen as lead-in for the first 6 months versus AZT-based and TDF-based first line regimens (A collaboration between SEARCH and Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital)

This is an open-label safety evaluation to compare a 6-month initial treatment period with GPO-virS (d4T, 3TC, NVP) followed by GPO-virZ or GPO-virZ (ZDV, 3TC, NVP) or TDF/FTC/NVP. This study will be conducted at 2 sites in Thailand: The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre and Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital in Chonburi. One-hundred and fifty patients will be enrolled and followed for 72 weeks.  An R01 NIH grant has been funded to support the extended investigation of the pathogenesis underlying HIV-sensory neuropathy in individuals before and following initiation of HAART by assessing the epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD). The study has commenced in May 2008 and will complete in 2010.