ABBOTT'S HIV DRUG TO BE MADE AFFORDABLE IN AFRICA

U.S.-based Abbott Laboratories announced it is implementing a new program aimed at expanding access to its new HIV drug, Aluvia (lopinavir/ritonavir), in the developing world. The company's initiatives include:A pricing structure that reduces the price of Aluvia tablets to $2,200 per patient per year in low-income and low-middle-income countries;A pricing structure of $500 per patient per year in Africa and the least developed countries;Significant investment in additional manufacturing capacity to meet the anticipated increased demand for high-quality, second-line HIV treatments; andDevelopment of a new pediatric formulation of lopinavir/ritonavir to meet the treatment needs of HIV-positive children.

Aluvia is the same as the non-refrigerated Kaletra tablets. Lopinavir/ritonavir is the World Health Organization's recommended second-line treatment for HIV infection in the developing world. The company is working to register Aluvia in Africa, Asia and Latin America.