Abstract

ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS AMONG HIV-POSITIVE PATIENTS RECEIVING ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA

*Chijioke-Nwauche Ifeyinwa N. and Wariboko West O.

Abstract

The administration of antiretroviral drugs has reduced morbidity and mortality in HIV persons, but has however been associated with many challenges particularly adverse drug reactions (ADRs). A retrospective study to assess reported ADRs among adult HIV-patients receiving antiretroviral (ARV) therapy between January and December 2017 in a Nigerian tertiary hospital was carried out. Relevant data (patients’ demography, ART regimens, adverse drug reactions and the interventions provided by the pharmacists) were collected from pharmaceutical care monthly summary form, pharmacovigilance record books and pharmacy daily work sheets. ADRs were recorded in 11 out of 16 ARV regimens. Out of 20,673 clients screened, there were 109 with ADRs, with 64 (58.7%) females and 45 (41.28%) males. About half of the ADRs were attributed to dermatological disorders including skin rash 45 (25.14%) pruritus 40 (22.35%), followed by central and peripheral nervous system reactions which includes dizziness, insomnia, nightmares and headaches. Others are jaundice, GIT and musculoskeletal disorders. Tenofovir/lamivudine/efavirenz regimen recorded the highest ADRs. Gender and age were associated with ADRs (p=0.001 and p=0.0001 respectively). Pharmacist’s interventions ncluded change of drug regimen, symptomatic treatment of the ADR and referral to physicians for specialist care. ADRs among HIV patients on different regimens has been shown to be majorly dermatological. Interventions by pharmacists were few but were according to standard guidelines. However, there was no information on the onset and duration of ADRs. The study makes pharmacovigilance reporting and training of personnel very imperative as this can enhance adherence by patients.

Keywords: adverse drug reactions, antiretroviral drugs, HIV, pharmacist’s intervention.