Potential interactions in a cohort of elderly hiv-positive patients

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The increase of HIV-patients life expectancy leads to a new model of patient with chronic diseases and polymedicated. For this reason we ought to know in clinical practice the prevalence of polypharmacy and drug-drug interactions between the antiretroviral drugs and comedication in our patients in order to identify and prevent them. Method: A retrospective, descriptive study carried out in > 50 years old patients on antiretroviral treatment. Results: We included 242 patients of whom 148 (61%) were receiving concomitant treatment. 243 potential interactions were detected, where 197 are considered moderate and 46 severe, affecting 110 patients. 35 (76%) interactions were related to boosted protease inhibitors. The main consequence of these interactions was the increase in plasma concentrations of comedication (48%). Statins were the comedication most involved in severe drug-druginteractions (24%), followed by inhaled corticosteroids (15%). Conclusions: Polypharmacy was found in about half of our study population and the prevalence of drug-drug interactions was high. Hospital pharmacists may play a crucial role in their detection, management and early communication.

Keywords

• HIV
• Antiretroviral therapy
• Aging
• Drug interactions