Publication:

Monitoring cutaneous adverse drug reactions in patients on TDF+3TC+EFV: a single centre experience

Background HIV-infected patients initiating antiretroviral therapy may manifest a wide variety of ADRs ranging from trivial manifestation, such as rashes, pigmentation, to severe life‑threatening reactions, such as Steven–Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis. The present study thus monitored cutaneous adverse drug reactions in patients on first line antiretroviral regimen comprising of tenofovir disoproxil fumerate, lamivudine and efavirenz as a three drug-combination.

Methods A prospective observational clinical study was carried out for a period of one year among PLHIV receiving TDF+3TC+EFV as first line regimen in the outpatient setting of a nodal ART centre of eastern India.

Results The major regimen induced dermatological complications presenting in our study set up included rashes, itching, SJS, pigmentation of nails, skin Hyperpigmentation. The morbilliform eruption, often referred to as a maculopapular rash, is the most common type of reaction occurring after treatment initiation.

Conclusions Adverse drug reactions are one of the most common public health concerns, which influence patients' treatment options along with health care costs.