In an effort to improve adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment and patient outcomes in the North West province, the Department of Health has to date initiated a total number of 6 342 eligible HIV positive patients on new Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) pill treatment since its introduction in April 2013.
The number includes 2 882 pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, 3 229 new infections and 231 patients that were switched from the three drugs to FDC due to side effects or adverse events.
The new pill is a combination of all three antiretroviral pills, emtricitabine, efavirenz and tenofovir. It is being administered to all newly diagnosed patients that are eligible to be put on ARV treatment, pregnant women and HIV positive breastfeeding mothers. The pill is easy to take, highly effective with fewer or no side effects and it is in no way inferior to taking three individual drugs.
A significant number of clinical health professionals in the province have already been trained on the FDC to rollout to eligible groups in 315 health facilities currently providing antiretroviral treatment. Health MEC Dr. Magome Masike has expressed his contentment with the department’s progress in rolling out FDC.
“We are also happy with the progress we are making in the fight against HIV/AIDS. However, I must say that there is more that needs to be done especially in getting more men to test,” says MEC Magome Masike.
The North West province is currently providing antiretroviral treatment to about 186 777 patients.
Enquiries:
Tebogo Lekgethwane, Provincial Health spokesperson
Cell: 082 929 9958
E-mail: Tlekgethwane@nwpg.gov.za.
