Transfer of ARVs In Utero versus Via Breastfeeding
Researchers measured levels of ARVs, including lopinavir, ritonavir, and efavirenz, in infants via samples of hair, plasma, and cord blood as well as mother's breastmilk to determine methods of transfer to infants. Levels were measured at various times postpartum. Lopinavir and ritonavir showed moderate levels of transfer via plasma but very little transfer from breastfeeding while efavirenz showed evidence of transfer to the infant both in utero and through breastfeeding. Further study can optimize treatments to prevent mother-to-child transmissions.
Citation:
Gandhi M, Mwesigwa J, Aweeka F, Plenty A, Charlebois E, Ruel TD, Huang Y, Clark T, Ades V, Natureeba P, Luwedde FA, Achan J, Kamya MR, Havlir DV, Cohan D; Prevention of Malaria and HIV disease in Tororo (PROMOTE) study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2013 Aug 15;63(5):578-84.
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