A Meta-analysis of the Relative Efficacy and Toxicity of Pneumocystis carinii Prophylactic Regimens

Abstract

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim is the superior regimen, and low doses could improve tolerance without losing effectiveness for primary prophylaxis. Low doses of dapsone reduce toxic effects, but at the expense of some loss of efficacy. There are few data on the use of low-dose regimens for secondary prophylaxis. High doses of aerosolized pentamidine may improve the efficacy of this regimen. Aerosolized pentamidine is inadequate for prevention of toxoplasmosis, and strategies that improve the tolerance of oral regimens may increase effectiveness in preventing toxoplasmosis.