DaunoXome Available for Advanced HIV-Related KS

BOULDER, Colorado--NeXstar Pharmaceuticals, Inc., has launchedDaunoXome, its liposomal dauno-rubicin product, as first-linetreatment for advanced HIV-associated Kaposi's sarcoma (KS).

The FDA approved the agent in April, following review of the company'sphase III clinical trial comparing DaunoXome with the ABV regimen(Adriamycin, bleomycin, vincristine).

The liposomal formulation had comparable efficacy (25% responserate vs 28% for ABV), the company said, with major safety advantages,including no significant alopecia, neuropathy, or cardiomyopathy.

"The drug is so well tolerated that patients don't mind comingback every other week for their treatment," said Dr. JimWernz, of New York University, at a press briefing.