Monitoring Of Adverse Drug Reaction In Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Drug Treatment In A Tertiary Care Hospital

Monitoring Of Adverse Drug Reaction In Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Drug Treatment

Abstract

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are frequently encountered among patients taking antiretroviral treatment (ART).The aim of this study was to describe the type and frequency of ADRs in patients receiving antiretroviral drugs. Material and Methods: 658 patients started on ART during the study period of 1 year were monitored for ADRs. The incidence and natures of ADRs occurring with different ART regimens were recorded. The study also assessed the severity, causality as well as the impact of ADRs on the patients' compliance. Results: Of 658 patients receiving ART, 33.7% patients (N=222) experienced ADRs. Among patients who developed ADRs there were more females 116(53%) than males 106(47%). Overall, 132(59.4%) of ADRs were reported by patients on ZLN regime with 54(24.3%) of these occurring in patients on SLN regime. The incidence of Anaemia in the patients who developed ADR is 25.2%, of Gastritis is 16.7%, of Cutaneous reactions is 14.9%, of Peripheral neuropathy is 11.3%, of CNS side effects is 11.3%, of Lipodystrophy is 10.8%, of Hepatoxicity is 5%, of Nausea, Vomiting in the patients is 3.60% and of Lipoatrophy is 1.4%. Among ADRs 59% of the reactions belong to grade II severity, 21.6% suffered from grade I, 18 % suffered from grade III, 1.4% suffered from grade IV severity.61.7% patients who developed ADRs required to substitute ART regime. Causality assessment revealed 69% ADRs were probable score 38% was of possible score. Conclusion: ADR is the single most common reason for poor adherence to treatment. Identifying risk factors for the occurrence of ADRs is of crucial importance to optimize the initial choice of ARVs regimen before initiating therapy and to adapt the pace of surveillance. With the increasing access to ART in India, it is prudent that ARV drugs are used judicially with regular monitoring of ADRs. [Zaparde S Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(5):56-60]