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Adverse effects of antiretroviral treatment at a tertiary care hospital in India: a prospective observational study

Journal: International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences (Vol.1, No. 3)

Publication Date:

Authors : ;

Page : 230-232

Keywords : Adverse drug reaction; Antiretroviral therapy; Acquired immune deficiency syndrome;

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Abstract

Background: Data on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to antiretroviral (ARV) use in public health practice are few indicating the need for antiretroviral therapy (ART) safety surveillance in clinical care. Methods: 143 patients on ART were studied prospectively over a period of two years. All patients were asked to visit the clinic if they developed any symptoms or on a monthly basis. They were screened clinically and investigated suitably for any ADRs. Results: 143 HIV positive patients were analyzed. At least one ADR was seen in 87 (60.83%) subjects. The most common ADR observed was peripheral neuropathy in 54 (37.76%) patients, followed by lipodystrophy (13.98%), anemia (10.48%) and hyperlipidemia (6.29%). Patients with peripheral neuropathy and lipodystrophy were mainly on stavudine based regimes, while patient with anemia and hyperlipidemia were on zidovudine based regimes. Conclusions: In spite of high ADRs, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is the only answer to HIV/AIDS. To optimize adherence and thus, efficacy of ART, clinicians must focus on preventing adverse effects whenever possible, and distinguish those that are self-limited from those that are potentially serious. [Int J Res Med Sci 2013; 1(3.000): 230-232]

Last modified: 2013-08-16 02:00:18