Simpler regimens for preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission.

Research is being done to find a more feasible regimen for preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission (vertical transmission) world-wide. A three-step regimen of AZT has been proven to reduce the rate of vertical transmission. However, this regimen, which is given over many weeks, is often unaffordable and inaccessible in developing nations. Studies indicate that a shorter course of AZT or a two-dose regimen of Nevirapine (Viramune) is also effective in reducing the rate of vertical transmission. Although the results are preliminary, these treatments may provide developing countries with a low cost, accessible regimen.