Prescribing for patients taking antiretroviral therapy

Abstract

Current first-line antiretroviral therapy comprises a combination of drugs that are generally well tolerated. Adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions, renal and liver toxicity, rhabdomyolysis, hyperlipidaemia, weight gain and neuropsychiatric disorders. Most drug–drug interactions related to antiretroviral therapy involve drug absorption, metabolism or elimination. Some interactions may increase toxicity or reduce the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy potentially resulting in treatment failure. Routinely checking for adverse drug effects and potential drug–drug interactions is an important part of the care of people taking antiretroviral therapy. This includes asking about the patient’s use of over-the-counter and complementary medicines.