The Region - News from May 15, 1985

Newport Pharmaceuticals has agreed to distribute an experimental anti-AIDS drug, which the government approved for “compassionate use” on patients with the fatal disease, a spokeswoman said. Although the drug’s effectiveness is unproven, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last Friday gave the Newport Beach firm approval to distribute the drug, Isoprinosine, at cost for the treatment of any AIDS patients whose doctors ask for it. Isoprinosine is sold legally in 70 nations, including Mexico, and patients with the deadly acquired immune deficiency syndrome or a less severe condition called pre-AIDS have been buying the drug there.