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Ritonavir is currently available only in a soft gel-cap formulation that requires refrigeration, making it inconvenient if not impossible for some patients to use. However, a heat-stable tablet formulation may be on the way, according to a report from Barry Bernstein at the International AIDS Conference [Abstract THAB0405].
Scientists from Abbott Laboratories conducted an open-label, crossover study, in which 84 healthy volunteers (90% white; 47% women) received single 100-mg doses of both the gel cap and tablet under moderate-fat meal conditions. The tablet used was more tightly compressed than earlier versions in development, since those showed swelling from water absorption at ambient conditions. Total exposure to ritonavir was similar be…