IL-2, administered subcutaneously in combination with antiretrovirals, has resulted in increased CD4+ cell counts which may retard HIV disease progression. Using a smaller patient sampling, this Phase II study helps develop the clinical experience needed to consider formation of a larger, more complete Phase III trial.

Seventy-two HIV-infected patients (previously treated or naive) are randomized independently to receive either control therapy with antiretrovirals alone OR escalating doses of subcutaneous interleukin-2 (IL-2) plus antiretrovirals. In the absence of dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) in at least 9 of 12 patients in Group 1, 12 additional patients are entered into Group 2 and treated as indicated. In the absence of DLT in 9 of 12 patients in Group 2, the final 12 patients are entered into Group 3. Those patients enrolled in either of the first 2 dose groups who complete 3 courses of therapy have their dose escalated to a maximum dose. A course of treatment is defined as 5 days of IL-2 plus antiretrovirals followed by 7 weeks of antiretroviral therapy alone.