Thalidomide to treat oral lesions in HIV-infected patients

Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, Jan-Feb, 2004

Sponsored by National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)

This study will test the effectiveness of thalidomide in healing mouth sores in HIV-infected patients. These sores are thought to be caused partly by changes in the amount of a substance made by the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha).

Thalidomide can modify TNF-alpha levels. However, thalidomide can cause drowsiness, skin rashes, allergic reactions and even nerve damage that may not be reversible. This study will see if these side effects can be reduced by giving the drug topically (directly on the surface of the sore).

Condition                           Treatment or Intervention  Phase

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome  Drug: Thalidomide          Phase II
Burning Mouth Syndrome
HIV Infection

Study ID Numbers 960095; 96-D-0095

NLM Identifier NCT00001524