Positives

• You may experience a T-cell boost for a period of time, usually 18 weeks to 16 months, depending on the individual PWHIV/PWA.
• AZT crosses the blood/brain barrier and small doses may provide some central nervous system protection.
• It appears that combining two anti-retrovirals might work better than one.
• Provides a Do-cebo to a "Do Something" person with HIV/AIDS.
• Possible protection against vertical transmission in pregnancy.

Negatives

• Doesn't provide proven survival benefit.
• Peripheral neuropathy problems, especially with ddC and ddI.
• Dosages and combinations not well known, especially for women.
• Interactions with other drugs not well documented. Side effects may result with liver enzymes, pancreatitis, and peripheral neuropathy.
• Unknown long term side effects to children exposed during pregnancy.