Results of clinical trials are just as important to me as a diagnostic test. I'm hoping we'll get a good diagnostic test soon but if clinical trials show good results with reasonable lack of adverse effects, I would consider taking antiretrovirals. Point being there are theories about how XMRV works but if antiretrovirals work, I wouldn't need to know the exact mechanisms to try it. I would be happy with a few small trials as if I wait for a large trial, it might take many years to get results.
The other consideration would be how sick I am. If I get really sick, I might be more willing to try something earlier. On the other hand, in some illnesses, it is better to get early treatment rather than waiting. Not sure yet how this is for XMRV. Also, cost would be a consideration.
I am lucky in that my docs have lots of experience using antiretrovirals and are open to following the studies with me. One of them said that it would be great if antiretrovirals worked because she would finally feel like she could actually help me.
(Sue, Ampligen is available through 2 docs only (Peterson and Lapp I think) and costs like $20,000 a year. But my main concern with it is I don't think it's particularly effective. Hard to know for sure since the company hasn't put out any published scientific studies after their last trial which, to my suspicious mind, means not very effective or bad adverse effects.)