E-DRUG: WHO's new HIV treatment guidelines (2)
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Dear Colleagues,
Here in Namibia, we have about 12% paediatric on ART treatment and about 30 % of the ARV combinations for this group contains d4T as a fixed dose with 3TC in tablets of different strength or as a solution of single molecule (stavudine oral solution). I expect in most developing countries this ratio would reflect - more or less - the same.
In terms of logistics, phasing out stavudine based paediatric dosage forms, in Namibia, result in only one option; AZT based dosage forms. Therefore, we are left with syrup/solution dosage forms which increase total stock holding costs (Storage, transportation, human resources etc). In addition to the logistics challenges that are straight forward, this change in regimen would result in inconvenience to care providers at community/home level.
Consideration shall be made on challenges of implementation opting for changes in policy of treatment. This recomendation will put big presuree on the supply chain. As indicated in the "Rapid Advice", WHO promised to assist in implementation of the policy in countries working on phasing out of d4T based treatment. I would like to hear more or get advise from our experts on the challenges or implication of this recommendation on the logistics costs and its influences on supply chain management.
Please forward me if there are any study indicating volume of paediatrics dosage and its influence on ART services.
Thank You
Alemayehu Lemma Wolde (B.Pharm, MPH)
Senior ART Logistics Advisor
Supply Chain Management System (SCMS) Namibia
Private, P.O.BOX 90839
Klein Windhoek, Namibia
Telephone:+26461305390 (Office)
Mobile :- +264813649087
Fax:-+26461305398
Alemayehu Lemma <alemayehulemma@yahoo.com>